Decline Local TV Companies in Kakheti

Decline Local TV Companies  in Kakheti

There are sufficient media sources in Kakheti, but unlike local press, the electronic media does not stand up to the required “level of independence”. The main reason of this is considered to be the troubled financial situation TV companies find themselves in. Media owners are eager to avoid extra troubles. Five regional television stations: “Tanamgzavri” (Telavi), “Gurdjaani” (Gurdjaani), “Tvali” (Sagarejo, Lagodekhi, Akhmeta) are broadcasting in the Kakheti region.

According to inhabitants the Telavian television station, which is going to spread its broadcast over the whole of the Kakheti region in the nearest future, has started immediate, sufficient and objective coverage of the events recently.  However, the question of what “Tanamgzavri” did before arises. The fact is that it used to be in the hands of the former representatives of the local government Medea Mezvrishvili and Bidzina Songulashvili. When launching critical coverage of the events in the region, the board members and journalists of the company started experiencing problems. Also, the station was raided by the financial police. In spite of this fact “Tanamgzavri” remained critical. Therefore, it managed to get the fair and sincere support from the people. Journalist Nino Megutnishvili and the program “Dialogue” became very popular. The only fact that irritates people is the endless court case between the board members.

“Gurdjaani” TV company, existing already for 10 years on the other hand, has turned into has fallen in quality. The reason needs little explanation as the local governor Akaki Sikharulidze is constantly using the broadcasting time.

As for “Tvali”, the owner of which is Tamar Kurdovanidze, it has lost its fairness and criticism. According to inhabitants the reason is that that Gia Natsvrishvili, who became MP, is the son of Tamar Kurdovanidze. Thus, “Tvali” views the facts and events in the way it suits the local authorities. Important is that Sagaredjo, Gurjaani, Akhmeta and Lagodekhi TV companies are financed by the local budget for media services. Therefore, it is clear why the sins of local authorities are always forgiven.  
 

Gela  Mtivlishvili from Kakheti