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April 28, 2025 – Georgia –
On May 1, 2025, Mtavari Arkhi, Georgia’s most influential opposition-aligned television channel, officially ceased broadcasting after nearly six years on air. The closure follows months of internal disputes, financial instability, and allegations of political interference.
The shutdown was announced to staff on April 28 by General Director Giorgi Gabunia, who cited an “artificially triggered financial crisis” allegedly orchestrated by co-founder and major shareholder Zaza Okuashvili. Gabunia accused Okuashvili of withholding payments to service providers and acting in coordination with the ruling Georgian Dream party to undermine the channel’s operations.
Okuashvili, in turn, accused Gabunia and fellow co-founder Nika Gvaramia of financial mismanagement, claiming they had driven the station into bankruptcy. He stated that his original intention was to replace the current leadership team; when that proved unfeasible, he opted for closure.
Mtavari Arkhi had suspended live programming in mid-February due to financial difficulties, continuing to air only reruns and TV series. Despite hopes of resuming full operations, the channel ultimately decided to cease broadcasting entirely.
The channel’s closure has raised concerns about media pluralism in Georgia. Mtavari Arkhi was known for its critical coverage of the government and had a significant following, with over 1.4 million followers across its social media platforms. Observers warn that the shutdown strengthens the Georgian Dream party’s control over the media landscape, especially following recent legislation that restricts foreign funding for broadcasters and grants expanded regulatory powers to the Communications Commission.
Despite the setback, Gvaramia has vowed to establish a new opposition media outlet, stating, “Mtavari will close, but a new one will rise. It can’t be any other way. I believe it, and I know it”.
Reference –
https://civil.ge/archives/678223
https://eurasianet.org/georgias-most-influential-opposition-broadcaster-shutting-down
