Communications Commission issues Mtavari Arkhi with a Fine of GEL 58,061.76
The Communications Commission has issued Mtavari Arkhi with a fine of GEL 58,061.76 for repeat violation of the legislative requirements regarding the placement of pre-election/political advertising. In accordance with the Georgian legislation, pre-election adverts can be aired by the broadcasters from the next Monday of the scheduling day of the second round of voting. Therefore, Mtavari Arkhi only had the right to broadcast political adverts from Monday, 16 November.
It is important to note that the Communications Commission sent a letter to broadcasters on 3 November, reminding them about the legislative requirements regarding the placement of political advertising during the second round of the elections. Thus, Mtavari Arkhi had been informed about the given issue, but nevertheless proceeded to broadcast paid political adverts on behalf of United Opposition “Strength is in Unity” and the political union Lelo on 6 and 7 November. Consequently, Mtavari Arkhi violated the legislative requirements regarding the placement of pre-election/political advertising.
In view of the fact that Mtavari Arkhi had already been fined for an identical offence in February, the broadcaster was issued with a fine of 1% of its annual revenue for the repeat offence.