The Controversial Icon
On January 10, 2024, a civil activist named Nata Peradze splashed blue paint onto an icon of Saint Matrona, which also depicts Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, in the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi, Georgia. The icon, which was donated by a Russian businessman in 2018, shows Stalin being blessed by the saint during World War Two. The icon sparked controversy and criticism from many Georgians, who consider Stalin a tyrant and a murderer.
Peradze, who is also known as Natalia, said she defaced the icon as an act of protest against the glorification of Stalin and the Russian influence on the Georgian Orthodox Church. She claimed that the icon was an insult to the millions of victims of Stalin’s regime and the Georgian people who suffered under Soviet occupation. She also accused the church of being complicit in the propaganda and manipulation of the Kremlin.
The Public Outrage
Peradze’s action triggered a wave of public outrage and condemnation from Orthodox Church activists, believers, and far-right groups. They demanded harsh punishment for Peradze, who they said had insulted the icon and their faith. They also staged large protests in front of the cathedral and the court, holding banners and chanting slogans such as “Hands off our icons!” and “Stalin is our hero!”
Some of the protesters also attacked and harassed journalists and human rights defenders who were covering the case or supporting Peradze. They accused them of being traitors and agents of the West. The police had to intervene to prevent violence and maintain order.
The Court Ruling
On February 2, 2024, the Tbilisi City Court ordered five days’ detention for Peradze on charges of petty hooliganism, an administrative offence. The court rejected the request of the prosecutor to launch a criminal investigation against Peradze, which could have resulted in up to three years in prison. The court also dismissed the claim of the cathedral’s administration that the icon was damaged beyond repair and required compensation.
Peradze’s lawyer, who represented her from the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association, said they would appeal the court’s decision. He argued that Peradze’s act was a legitimate expression of her opinion and did not violate anyone’s rights or freedoms. He also said that the icon was not a sacred object, but a political symbol that offended many Georgians.
Peradze, who was arrested at her home, said she was not afraid of the consequences and would continue her fight against injustice and illegality. She said she hoped that her case would raise awareness and spark a debate about the role and influence of the church and Russia in Georgia.
