Mzia Amaglobeli, the founder of the popular media outlet “Batumelebi,” has officially ended her 38-day hunger strike, a decision that follows mounting public concern for her health and well-being. Her letter, read by Eter Turadze, editor of “Batumelebi,” was delivered to the public during a briefing at the “Vivamedi” clinic.
Amaglobeli’s hunger strike, which began after her arrest on charges of assaulting a police officer, has sparked nationwide attention. She was accused of slapping Batumi Police Chief Irakli Dgebuadze, an incident that led to her controversial arrest. Amaglobeli’s protest, driven by both her arrest and broader political tensions, has garnered solidarity from various activist groups.
In her letter, Amaglobeli expressed her gratitude to the “Prisoners of Conscience” who stood by her during the strike. The message also conveyed the emotional toll the public’s concern has taken on her, urging them to end their own hunger strikes, should they be participating. “Hearing the public’s concern for my health and life is incredibly difficult for me,” she wrote, visibly shaken by the widespread support and its impact on her decision.
Amaglobeli’s condition had deteriorated significantly throughout the course of the hunger strike. Doctors at “Vivamedi” clinic, where she was being treated, had warned of the severe consequences of continuing without proper nutrition. As her body weakened, the outpouring of support from citizens and activists made her rethink the course of her protest.
“My health is in a fragile state, but I will now try, with the help of doctors, to restore my nutrition,” Amaglobeli stated. This decision to halt the strike was heavily influenced by the increasing concern not just from family and friends, but from the public, who had been following the situation closely through media outlets and social networks.
Amaglobeli’s hunger strike began amidst the fallout of a tragedy that struck Batumi. Two minor children tragically died after falling into a ditch at the “Dream City” site, a development area in Batumi. The incident stirred public outrage, bringing heightened attention to issues of public safety and the role of government oversight in urban developments. In the wake of this tragedy, Amaglobeli’s strike became more than a personal protest – it became a rallying cry for justice and a symbol of resistance against what many saw as systemic failures.
“I feel a special responsibility towards my like-minded colleagues, friends, and family,” she continued in her letter. “I do not want my hunger strike to weaken you; you must also fight for me.” This statement further revealed her deep sense of solidarity with the broader movement of activists fighting for justice, accountability, and reform in Batumi and beyond.
The hunger strike ignited widespread support from the Georgian public, with many citizens and activists expressing solidarity for Amaglobeli’s cause. The “Prisoners of Conscience” initiative, a group dedicated to supporting those incarcerated under politically motivated charges, had been a strong advocate for Amaglobeli’s release. Their hunger strikes, as well as the broader movement, became a powerful statement against the government and what was perceived as the political targeting of Amaglobeli.
As Amaglobeli’s health deteriorated, public protests and demonstrations were held in Batumi and other parts of Georgia, calling for her release and for accountability in the wake of the tragedy. The movement continues to grow, amplifying the message of justice that has been the backbone of Amaglobeli’s actions.
Mzia Amaglobeli’s decision to end the hunger strike marks a new chapter in a long-standing battle for justice and reforms. While her health remains fragile, her message has resonated with a broad spectrum of Georgian society. The continued solidarity shown by her supporters is expected to play a pivotal role in driving the conversation forward.
The government has yet to comment on her release or the ongoing calls for reform following the incident in Batumi. However, with public support intensifying, it is likely that Amaglobeli’s case will remain in the spotlight for some time. Whether or not her release will lead to broader political changes remains uncertain, but her fight has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on Georgia’s political landscape.
