“Mirror of pluralism and democracy”: Georgian Parliament Speaker praises Imedi TV on its 23rd anniversary

Georgian Parliament speaker Shalva Papuashvili on Sunday congratulated Imedi TV on its 23rd anniversary, calling it a mirror of pluralism and democracy and emphasising its role as the voice of Georgian society.

In a social media message, Papuashvili congratulated the founder’s family, the channel’s staff, and its loyal supporters.

“I congratulate the family of its founder, every employee of the television channel, and its loyal supporters on this remarkable date”, he said.

The speaker recalled the channel’s difficult history, including periods of “occupation, seizure, and attempts to silence its broadcasts”.

“Since its founding, Imedi TV has had the mission to be the voice of the people, a mirror of pluralism and democracy - a place where society sees its own voice, its own truth, and itself. Its history has not been easy. This television channel has experienced firsthand what it means to be occupied, to be seized, to become a victim of betrayal and injustice. It knows what it means when attempts are made to silence a voice that reaches the people. Fortunately, that period in its history was short. Short, but unforgettable”, Papuashvili noted.

Despite these challenges, he emphasised that Imedi has emerged as a symbol of truth, trust, and service to the country and its people.

“At the same time, Imedi knows well what it means to carry the truth, to serve one’s country and people, and to enjoy the trust, love, and appreciation of its audience. That is its real dignity and strength. Georgia’s recent history has been a confrontation between the imposition of the will of external forces and policies driven by the country’s national interests. It is a struggle over sovereignty - a struggle to determine who we are, what rights we have, how independent we are, and what the degree of our freedom is”, the speaker said.

Papuashvili also linked the channel’s mission to the broader struggle for Georgia’s sovereignty, describing the country’s recent history as a confrontation between external pressures and policies rooted in national interests.

“In such a struggle, the voice that carries the voice of the people is of special importance. Today, Imedi has become exactly such a voice - a voice heard by the majority, a voice that conveys the thoughts, feelings, and message of the majority of society. And that is precisely why it is a target for all those who wish harm and want to turn off the lights in Georgia. This will not happen. On the contrary, every such attack proves that Imedi and its supporters stand on the right side. Many more battles and many more victories lie ahead. I wish you strength, courage, and great success”, he noted.

“Imedi must have many more years ahead to remain what its name means - hope”, Papuashvili concluded.