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Do Rustavi 2 and Mze have a political agenda?

Tuesday, April 29


“They do have a political agenda—there are no other channels that give the kind of coverage these two do. They are trying to brainwash the people. We can’t differentiate what is true and what is not. Sometimes these channels say awful things about the opponents of their adored officials. That’s not hard to understand.”
Nunu, babysitter, 50

“For me it’s very obvious that both TV stations are pro-government and therefore of course follow and support the government agenda.”
Nika, IT specialist, 29

“Of course they have a political agenda, every Georgian TV has one and these two channels’ agenda is very closely linked to the government’s stance.”
Lika, journalist, 32

“Yes, of course they do. They have a big role in politics. That’s why politicians are always trying to gain their support... But it is complicated… Who knows what on earth is going on…”
Meri, saleswoman, 52

“They do have a political agenda—that are key for politicians’ success.”
Natia, French specialist, 25

“I would say that most people believe what journalists say… So, people believe them and the politicians know how to use that to their advantage.”
Mamuka, driver, 38

“Don’t you remember [Badri] Patarkatsishvili? He lost society’s trust, and was pushed out of the TV business.”
Gizo, zoologist, 71