ISFED Responds to the GNCC Chairman

The accusations were directed towards discrediting ISFED's report published on September 13, which evaluated the imposition of liability by the GNCC on broadcasters to verify credibility of public opinion poll results and consideration of the Rustavi 2 case. Bekauri's press conference was characterized by inconsistent, unfounded, and senseless allegations. He voiced baseless accusations, including demanding that ISFED's donors reconsider funding the organization. ISFED assesses Bekauri's discrediting statements as an attempt to hamper the work of the organization, which is completely unacceptable and threatens democratic development. ISFED points out that Bekauri mixed up the report published by ISFED on September 13 with opinions expressed during a discussion organized by Transparency International – Georgia, in which ISFED representative was not present. Additionally, Bekauri's statements regarding the Rustavi 2 case were inconsistent with the minutes of the meeting on August 23, 2018, where ISFED representative was present. ISFED explains that the GNCC carried out monitoring of Rustavi 2 Broadcasting Company on August 15-16, 2018, and found that the broadcaster aired an advertisement of the political movement European Georgia. The GNCC's legal department explained that Rustavi 2 violated Art.50 of the Election Code of Georgia by airing a pre-election advertisement. However, the GNCC initially claimed that Rustavi 2 had violated Art.661 of the Law of Georgia on Broadcasting, but later changed the legal basis of the claim. ISFED evaluated the legitimacy of the decision of the GNCC to find Rustavi 2 to be in violation of Art.50 of the Election Code. During the meeting of the Commission, the representative of Rustavi 2 demanded that members of the GNCC clarify whether they meant possible violation of Art.50 of the Election Code or of the Law of Georgia on Broadcasting. In response, members of the Commission underlined Art.50 of the Election Code, and the GNCC Chairman explained that the pre-election period had already begun. However, during the briefing held on September 14, the GNCC Chairman expressed a different position, stating that at the time of monitoring of Rustavi 2 Broadcasting Company on August 15-16, 2018, the pre-election period had not yet officially begun. ISFED argues that the GNCC's decision is based on an incorrect interpretation of the law, as Art.50 of the Election Code becomes applicable maximum 60 days before the Election Day, and broadcasters become subject to relevant obligations no later than the 50th day before polling. ISFED also points out that Bekauri's accusations related to public opinion polls are baseless. The organization evaluates as a dangerous precedent the official notice sent to broadcasters by the Commission ordering them to verify credibility of public opinion poll results or otherwise face a fine. ISFED argues that public opinion polls are very important during electoral periods, and broadcasters are prohibited from using social research in a discriminatory manner. ISFED calls on the GNCC to recognize its function as an unbiased state entity, respond to criticism by providing arguments, and abide by the norms of ethical communication. The organization emphasizes that the GNCC and its chairman should demonstrate professionalism and respect for the principles of democratic development.