The hunger strike of Mzia Amaglobeli has entered its 25th day, and despite mounting health concerns, her resolve remains unshaken. Speaking from the Vivamedi clinic, her lawyer, Jumber Katamadze, confirmed that while she is physically weakened, her determination to continue the strike is unwavering.
Health Concerns Intensify, But Amaglobeli Stands Firm
Medical tests were conducted on Amaglobeli at the clinic, and additional examinations are scheduled. According to Katamadze, her transfer was strictly for routine health monitoring, not for emergency care. However, her declining condition is evident. Struggling to move, she remains defiant, resisting all requests to halt her protest.
She has been vocal about her motivation, making it clear that the dismissive rhetoric from government officials has only strengthened her stance.
Why Is She on Hunger Strike?
Amaglobeli’s protest is not just personal. She is striking in solidarity with all political prisoners, urging attention to what she sees as unjust imprisonments. Despite her plea for others to abandon their hunger strikes, her own protest has become a focal point of political resistance in Georgia.
Her case stems from an incident on January 12, where she allegedly slapped a police officer during her arrest. Charged under Article 353 of the Criminal Code, she faces a potential sentence of four to seven years in prison. Batumi City Court ordered her pre-trial detention two days later, escalating tensions between the government and opposition groups.
Protests and Public Outcry Escalate
Public rallies demanding Amaglobeli’s release have intensified across the country. On February 4, protesters gathered outside the Parliament building in Tbilisi, condemning the charges against her and rejecting legislative changes proposed by the ruling Georgian Dream party.
Tensions flared as demonstrators moved toward the side entrance of Parliament. Law enforcement intervened, removing two individuals from the protest, but the gathering persisted. A significant police presence remained on site as the demonstration continued.
The Broader Political Implications
The situation surrounding Amaglobeli has drawn reactions beyond Georgia’s borders. Human rights organizations and political figures abroad have labeled her a political prisoner, further pressuring the government to reconsider its stance.
With growing international attention and ongoing domestic protests, the Georgian government faces increasing scrutiny. Whether authorities will yield to public pressure or maintain their hardline approach remains uncertain, but Amaglobeli’s hunger strike has undoubtedly intensified the national conversation on political dissent and human rights.
