The unlikely feud between Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and the UK government has escalated, with Mr Kobakhidze unleashing a scathing verbal attack on British politicians. The tensions stem from a recent report by City AM revealing that consumer giant Procter & Gamble (P&G) has halted advertising with Imedi, Georgia's largest media group, amidst UK sanctions imposed in February. This decision follows Nestle's confirmation of a review into its ties with the same media conglomerate.
According to sources close to the matter, Prime Minister Kobakhidze described the developments as 'a shame for England, a shame for Britain [and] a shame for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer personally', who he claimed was the 'most unpopular prime minister in the world'. In a press conference addressing queries from Georgian journalists, Mr Kobakhidze vehemently asserted: 'This is a shame for Britain because Britain is traditionally considered the homeland of human rights and Britain decided to close down television in Georgia and attack free media in our country.'
The UK's decision to impose sanctions on Imedi has led other global brands, including the commercial arm of the BBC, to sever ties with the company. P&G has confirmed that it 'voluntarily adjusted our approach' while ensuring compliance with the UK sanctions regime. Similarly, Nestle stated its commitment to adhering to 'all applicable laws and international sanctions'.
Georgia's current turmoil has fuelled concerns over its democratic credentials, as the ruling Georgian Dream party faces criticism for being pro-Russian and anti-democratic. A highly contentious 'foreign influence' law has been passed, with critics drawing parallels between this legislation and similar measures in Russia. This move is seen as a serious threat to Georgia's aspirations for European integration. Last year's protests culminated in demonstrators attempting to breach the presidential palace, prompting Mr Kobakhidze to propose banning three significant opposition parties, while recently ten opposition leaders were imprisoned.
Despite these commercial withdrawals, Prime Minister Kobakhidze has insisted that Imedi TV and another broadcaster, Postv, will not face operational difficulties. He reassured Georgians: 'We guarantee that neither Imedi TV nor Postv will have any problems in terms of functioning and that media freedom in Georgia will be fully protected, no matter what kind of attack we see from the British authorities on media freedom in Georgia.' A spokesperson for the UK government has thus far declined to comment on the situation.
Source: City AM