Georgian prosecutors question another Formula employee. What's happening at TV channel?
The case against Georgia’s Formula TV
Georgia‘s Prosecutor’s Office has summoned Formula cameraman Misho Martashvili for questioning as part of an investigation into the television channel. He is due to appear before investigators today. Journalist Nata Lomadze and TV presenter Davit Kashiashvili have already been questioned in connection with the same case.
Kashiashvili said he hoped prosecutors would drop the investigation.
“I can’t imagine what purpose would be served by continuing this case, although the public can judge for itself. They have already questioned me, the author of the report, and now cameraman Misho Martashvili. I hope the Prosecutor’s Office will soon announce that it is ending the criminal investigation.”
What’s happening at Formula?
According to the Prosecutor’s Office, a criminal investigation has been opened under a provision of Georgia’s Criminal Code covering the filing of a knowingly false accusation. Prosecutors say the case was launched following a complaint by lawyers representing film director Goga Khaindrava.
The investigation relates to a Formula report based on an anonymous source. The report alleged that, in 2016 and 2017, Khaindrava helped arrange the entry of Indian and Pakistani nationals into Georgia in exchange for payment, in coordination with the State Security Service.
Khaindrava and the Prosecutor’s Office argue that the report may have involved the unlawful interception of communications, prompting the criminal investigation.
Alongside the criminal case, Khaindrava has also filed a civil lawsuit against Formula. He alleges that the broadcaster published false and defamatory claims about him and is seeking compensation for non-material damage to his honour and reputation.
Formula’s lawyer says the civil claim does not meet the legal threshold required for it to succeed.
The case against Georgia’s Formula TV
