The lawyers of Mzia Amaghlobeli, the founder of the publications "Batumelebi" and "Netgazeti," filed a motion to recuse the judge, Nino Sakhelashvili, who is overseeing Mzia Amaghlobeli’s criminal case at the Batumi City Court. The judge, however, did not accept the motion.

According to the lawyers, Nino Sakhelashvili lacks the appropriate legal education, is banned from entering several EU countries, and is "involved in the illegal persecution of Mzia Amaghlobeli," which they argued is grounds for her recusal.

"The court believes that all the issues and arguments raised by the defense do not stem from the current legislation. Therefore, the defense’s motion regarding the recusal should not be granted. This ruling cannot be appealed separately; you may challenge it along with the final decision," said Judge Nino Sakhelashvili.

For your information, the substantive hearing of Mzia Amaghlobeli’s case is taking place at Batumi City Court. Mzia Amaghlobeli, the defendant, is attending the session. The investigation charges her under Article 353 of the Criminal Code, which refers to assaulting a police officer and carries a penalty of 4 to 7 years of imprisonment.

It is worth noting that Mzia Amaghlobeli was initially arrested administratively during a protest near the Batumi Main Police Department, and was released after approximately two hours. However, shortly after her release, she was re-arrested near the police station.