The bottom line is that we will not be silenced—these tactics cannot stop us. In fact, no method at all can suppress the expression of free thought. We decide what we write, what we read, and how we present information to our audience. We choose our own words—not Bidzina Ivanishvili, who is busy creating his own separate dictionary. This statement was made by journalist Vakho Sanaia, who was recently sentenced by the court to 30 days of administrative detention.

According to Sanaia, it is a mere illusion for anyone to believe that a 30-day prison sentence can be used to silence people.

"This doesn't just concern me—it concerns everyone, absolutely everyone. Consider the list of words for which television stations are being fined; there are 93 of them, though in reality, there are far more. Any word that carries a critical tone will never be acceptable to them. But the main point is that we will not be silenced. These tactics cannot stop us—in fact, no method whatsoever can suppress the expression of free thought. People in this country will always have their say. It is a complete delusion to think that by sentencing someone to detention—whether for 30 days or any other duration—they can force that person into silence; that will simply never happen. So, let them hand out as many detention sentences as they like; let them write whatever they please on their papers and read it aloud—we know what we will write, what we will say, and how we will present it to our audience. We choose our own words—not Bidzina Ivanishvili, who is busy compiling his own private dictionary. We have no interest in his dictionary," stated Vakho Sanaia.

Vakho Sanaia maintains that the actions for which the Ministry of Internal Affairs is holding him responsible do not constitute an offense.

"This is my third time in detention; they know very well that no amount of intimidation will work. This is simply a message to the public—a warning for people not to write or speak out. I will say it again: this approach is completely futile and has no future. Society will always express its views; no one can suppress this, regardless of the methods or forms used. This does not constitute an offense. I would repeat what I wrote a million times over—my only goal was to call people by their proper names, nothing more," stated Sanaia.

For context, journalist Vakho Sanaia has been sentenced to 30 days of administrative detention. The decision was handed down by Judge Tornike Kochkiani. Journalist Vakho Sanaia was not present at the hearing, as he considers the "persecution over social media posts to be absurd." He is currently at his home.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs accuses Sanaia of insulting political officials in three posts published on social media.