**GPB Board Chairman Reelected Amid Protests**
On April 3, the Georgian Public Broadcaster’s board of trustees reelected Vasil Maghlaperidze as its chairman for a six-year term. Despite ongoing protests and criticism from several board members, Maghlaperidze received eight votes from the board, while three members – Lika Basilaia-Shavgulidze, Zaza Abashidze, and Lasha Tughushi – voted against him.
Maghlaperidze’s re-election comes as no surprise, given his dominant position within the GPB. He has held various roles at the broadcaster, including General Director and Deputy Chair of the Georgian Dream party in 2021. Critics, however, have long accused Maghlaperidze of promoting Russian propaganda and mistreating staff.
**Criticism Mounts**
During the heated board meeting, Shavgulidze confronted Maghlaperidze, accusing him of “spreading Russian propaganda” and “mistreating people.” She also referenced a request made by eight board members to investigate alleged groundless accusations against employees critical of management. Maghlaperidze maintained his candidacy despite these criticisms.
Outside the GPB building, protesters gathered with banners and chanted slogans, demanding Maghlaperidze’s resignation. Journalist Guram Rogava and film director Salome Jashi were among those present, expressing their support for an independent public broadcaster.
**Sustained Protests**
The re-election of Maghlaperidze comes amidst sustained protests outside the GPB building. Critics have accused the broadcaster of neglecting to report on police crackdowns during pro-European demonstrations and promoting government-influenced narratives.
In December 2024, demonstrators called for access to live broadcasts to challenge these perceived biases. Tensions escalated as employees critical of management faced alleged slander campaigns and were barred from attending board meetings.
**Allegations of Slander**
Two GPB employees, Nino Zautashvili and Vasil Ivanov-Chikovani, have been subject to alleged slander campaigns following their criticism of Maghlaperidze. Pro-government media outlets claimed that some critical employees received “illegal income” from organizations linked to George Soros.
Zautashvili denied these allegations, stating she would sue the TV channel for disseminating disinformation. This controversy adds to the growing list of concerns surrounding the GPB’s editorial policy and management.
**A Complex Issue**
The re-election of Maghlaperidze raises questions about the independence and impartiality of the Georgian Public Broadcaster. As protests continue outside the GPB building, it remains to be seen whether this development will mark a turning point in the broadcaster’s relationship with its employees and the public.
The situation highlights the need for transparent and accountable governance at the GPB, ensuring that all voices are represented and the integrity of public broadcasting is upheld.
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