2016-08-14
Tbilisi, 15 August - The Prime Minister of Georgia Giorgi Kvirikashvili, commented on the public concern by the free campaign ad aired by the Public Broadcaster of Georgia, which contains a set of messages against state interests:
1. Today, as Georgia faces elections of historic significance that will be crucially important for our democratic statehood, for strengthening our independence, to which so many Georgian citizens have sacrificed their lives since the regaining thereof, it is of paramount importance that every individual and organization shares the responsibility;
2. The Government of Georgia has spared no effort in the recent years to ensure media independence, but independence does not mean irresponsibility. The media is the primary responsible party in ensuring against the dissemination content that can damage interests of the Georgian state. Thus, we welcome the decision made by the Public Broadcaster of Georgia to take off the air those election ads that undermine the interests and sovereignty of the state. Similarly, we urge other media outlets to spare no effort and avoid falling (albeit unintentionally) prey to propaganda. We all need to be particularly vigilant and careful during the pre election period given the increasing wave of propaganda against state interests.
3. The Government of Georgia will continue using all available legitimate and democratic means to prevent such propaganda, and it welcomes all relevant initiatives from non-governmental and political actors.