CDM Calls on GNCC not to Hinder Satellite Broadcast License for Maestro TV

Christian-Democratic Movement (CDM), a leading force in the parliamentary minority group, called on the Georgian National Communications Commission (GNCC) not to refuse Tbilisi-based Maestro TV in issuing license that will allow the television station to broadcast via satellite.

GNCC plans to discuss Maestro TV appeal for satellite broadcast license at a session on June 5.

CDM, which has it representative as a member of GNCC, said in a statement on June 3: “We call on the Commission not to yield to any type of political influence and to take a fair and objective decision, especially keeping in view that the [Maestro TV] has all the necessary documentation fully in compliance to [the norms].”

CDM also said that it had decided to make “a preemptive statement” after the speculation emerged on May 22 that the airing of seven unlicensed movies by the Maestro TV could have become a reason for rejecting in issuing the satellite broadcast license.

At a session of GNCC on May 22, which was attended by Mamuka Glonti, owner of Maestro TV, the Commission presented a letter sent by Rustavi 2 TV, which complained that Maestro TV aired seven unlicensed movies, which were originally purchased by Rustavi 2 TV.

Glonti, who did not deny the fact of airing those movies, told the Commission that the fact should no way become a reason for rejecting Maestro TV in issuing the license and cited GNCC’s policy of turning a blind eye on violation of broadcast procedures by other television stations. In particular he brought an example of Alania TV, a government-backed television station, which in the past had been broadcasting for months without having any license.

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