Two Charged Over Obstructing Publika Journalists Near Kaladze Campaign Office
Two individuals, Levan Zardiashvili and Saba Mindiashvili, were charged with interference with journalistic work in connection with the September 8, 2025, tensions, where two reporters from the Publika online outlet were attacked outside Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze’s campaign office, Publika reported on March 5.
The incident stems from September 8, 2025, tensions outside Kaladze’s campaign office in Tbilisi’s Melikishvili Avenue, which led to attacks from a group of what looked like ruling Georgian Dream party supporters, leaving several protesters and journalists injured. Among those attacked were Publika’s reporters, Aleksandre Keshelashvili and Keto Mikadze.
The video from the scene showed a man – allegedly Zardiashvili – forcibly grabbing Mikadze and snatching her phone. Another video showed a different man snatching a phone from Keshelashvili. The device was later returned to the journalist.
According to Publika, the Prosecutor’s Office charged Zardiashvili and Mindiashvili under Article 154 of the Criminal Code, covering unlawful interference with journalists’ professional activities, and punishable by fine, community service, corrective labor, or house arrest for a term of six months to two years. On March 6, Tbilisi City Court Judge Mzia Garshaulishvili set bail for both individuals at 3,000 GEL [1109 USD] each.
Note: The article has been updated to include the judge’s decision regarding Zardiashvili and Mindiashvili.
Also Read:
- 03/03/2026 – Europe Press Freedom Report: Situation in Georgia Deteriorated at ‘Alarming Rate’ in 2025
- 25/11/2025 – RSF: Press Freedom Violations in Georgia Reach ‘Unprecedented’ Levels, 600 Attacks in One Year
- 24/10/2025 – Seven Charged for Obstructing Pro-Government Journalists During October 4 Unrest
- 13/06/2025 – Investigation Launched Into Alleged Interference with POSTV Journalist’s Work