House approves MEGOBARI Act targeting Georgian corruption
The United States House of Representatives approved the MEGOBARI Act on Monday, introducing sanctions against Georgian officials accused of corruption or collaborating with Russia. The bill must still receive approval from the Senate.
What do you need to know?
- MEGOBARI Act: The U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation imposing sanctions on Georgian officials involved in corruption or working in favour of Russia.
- Politician review: The bill requires a "comprehensive review" of Georgian Dream party politicians for potential sanctions.
- State Department report: The law mandates a report on the activities of Russian and Chinese intelligence in Georgia.
What are the key assumptions of the MEGOBARI Act?
The act, supported by a significant majority of both Republicans and Democrats (349 votes for, 42 against), requires an extensive review of members of the ruling Georgian Dream party to determine if they should be subject to sanctions. The restrictions target those involved in corruption or violating Georgia's sovereignty.
According to the bill, the U.S. State Department must prepare a detailed report on the activities and presence of Russian and Chinese intelligence services on Georgian territory.
What are the reactions to the MEGOBARI Act?
The MEGOBARI Act — which means "friend" in Georgian — also aims to enhance cooperation between the U.S. and Georgia when democracy and full sovereignty are restored in the country.
The author of the bill is Republican Congressman Joe Wilson, a long-time supporter of the Georgian opposition who does not recognise the current authorities.
Following the vote, Wilson stated that the Ivanishvili regime seeks to undermine Georgia's freedom. He expressed support for the Georgian people and the legitimate President, Salome Zurabishvili, in their pursuit of free and fair elections. He added that the newly passed law presents members of the Georgian Dream party with a choice: either distance themselves from potential dictator Bidzina Ivanishvili or face sanctions. Wilson concluded by emphasizing that it is not too late to preserve Georgia's sovereignty.
The United States already imposed sanctions last year on several representatives of the Georgian government, including the Minister of Internal Affairs, for brutally suppressing protests. The sanctions also affected the honorary chairman of the Georgian Dream party, Bidzina Ivanishvili, considered the informal leader of the country.
