Arrested media manager Amaglobeli remains in clinic as hunger strike enters 30th day

Mzia Amaglobeli, the founder and director of Batumelebi and Netgazeti Georgian media outlets, remains under medical supervision at Tbilisi Vivamedi clinic as she enters the 30th day of her hunger strike.

Zurab Chkhaidze, the clinical director of Vivamedi, Amaglobeli had agreed to continued monitoring to prevent possible complications associated with prolonged starvation.

Chkhaidze noted that Amaglobeli’s condition remains stable, and she is feeling relatively energetic despite experiencing symptoms typical of a prolonged hunger strike, including general weakness. “Her health condition is unchanged – she feels quite energetic, although she has certain complaints, which are generally characteristic of a hunger strike of this duration,” Chkhaidze said.

A council of doctors last week evaluated Amaglobeli’s condition and concluded that continued clinical monitoring was necessary. Medical professionals emphasized the importance of maintaining vital functions and preventing further complications. “On Friday, a group of doctors assessed the patient, and we provided joint, coordinated recommendations, which the patient accepted. We explained the risks involved and the need for continued monitoring,” Chkhaidze added.

Amaglobeli was transferred to Vivamedi clinic on February 4 for medical examinations. While she has expressed a desire to return to the penitentiary facility where she is being held, doctors have strongly advised against it, given her fragile health condition.

The journalist and media executive is currently facing legal charges after slapping Batumi Police Chief Irakli Dgebuadze during protests against halted EU integration. She has been charged with assaulting a police officer, an offense that carries a potential prison sentence of four to seven years.