Today, during the session held on February 5, 2015, GNCC has issued written warnings upon the TV companies “Rustavi 2” and “Imedi,” while mobile operator “Geocell” has been defined as a commissioner of an improper advertisement.

The advertisement of the mobile operator “Geocell” has aired through both TV companies featuring anchors and journalists of several news and social-political programs. In accordance with the Georgian Law “on Broadcasting,” the participation of anchors and journalists of news and social-political programs in the commercial advertising is prohibited. As for the advertisement commissioner mobile operator “Geocell” itself, the Commission has defined the company as a commissioner of an improper advertisement, however, failed to impose sanctions due to the lack of relevant authority envisaged by the Georgian legislation.

At the same session, the Commission has issued a written warning upon Radio “Imedi” for placing the weapon advertisement. The weapon ad was placed through Radio “Imedi” by the “Kula” Ltd with the following narrative: “Caliber wishes you a happy 2015 and offers an unprecedented sale- Beret, Benelli, Glock and Cheze brand rifles at the lowest price, if another store offers you lower priced products, Caliber will compensate the difference, all costumers will be given a present, for an information please call…..” Pursuant to article 10 of the Georgian Law “on Advertising” fighting weapons shall not be advertised.   

The Commission has defined “Kula” Ltd as a commissioner of an improper advertisement as well, and yet, was unable to impose sanctions for this particular case.