Georgian FM rejects RSF report, defends Ivanishvili’s role in national affairs

Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili on Tuesday criticised a recent article published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), describing it as “artificial” and “politically motivated” against the Georgian Government and specific individuals.

In her remarks, Botchorishvili noted that such reports were “coordinated attempts” to undermine the country’s leadership.

“Such artificial rankings or lists are deliberately coordinated and directed against the Government or specific individuals in Georgia. Bidzina Ivanishvili’s name has been mentioned many times - they are very much bothered by this person’s presence in Georgia, as they see that he constantly cares about the country’s national interests”, the Minister said.

“Of course, this does not align with their interests, and this case is no exception. It is unimaginable what this ranking has to do with Bidzina Ivanishvili”, she concluded.

Reporters Without Borders recently published a report alleging that Bidzina Ivanishvili has “taken control of the media” in Georgia in 2025. The same list also includes Elon Musk, Viktor Orbán, Robert Fico, and Benjamin Netanyahu.