Georgian Patriarchate accuses opposition-minded TV channels of ‘insulting its institution’

The Georgian Patriarchate has accused three opposition-minded TV channels Mtavari Arkhi, TV Pirveli and Formula TV of ‘insulting its institution’ and using hate speech following a recent incident in which Monk Ioane verbally harassed a Formula TV journalist.

In Tavkvetula Monastery in Aspindza municipality, Monk Ioane insulted a Formula TV journalist on August 28 as she was asking questions about the alleged illegal construction of a dining hall in a monastery, a cultural heritage site, on the monk’s initiative. 

The patriarchate says that ‘some misconduct’ took place by the clergyman, noting that the opposition-minded TV channels are ‘deliberately generalising the individual case.’

The Georgian Patriarchate accused foreign embassies and the non-governmental sector of neglecting violations of journalistic ethics.

Grossly violating the norms of journalistic ethics, there is still a public demonstration of psychological violence and obstruction of civil peace,” reads the patriarchate’s statement. 

The statement also reads that some members of several political parties along with journalists insult the institution and encourage disturbances. 

We once again call on everyone to show restraint. Trust God, and patiently overcome challenges,” says the statement. 

Per the International Republican Institute’s (IRI) survey results, the Georgian Patriarchate is the second most liked institution in the country after the army with 80 per cent of the country's population being favourable towards the institution.