U.S. Ambassador to Georgia, Kelly Degnan, on Wednesday, said: “The designations announced today against four corrupt individuals demonstrate the United States’ firm commitment to combat corruption and help the people of Georgia succeed in building the democratic society they so clearly want and deserve.”
Below is her full statement:
“Today, Secretary Blinken announced designations on four individuals associated with the Georgian judiciary. The State Department determined – based on credible and corroborated evidence – these individuals abused their public positions by engaging in significant corrupt activity. Their actions undercut judicial and public processes by offering benefits to, or coercing judges, to decide cases in favor of their political allies and manipulating judicial appointments to their benefit. Their corruption undermined rule of law and democratic processes, damaging the Georgian public’s faith in the independence of one of the most important democratic institutions in Georgia. Under United States law, credible evidence of significant corruption such as this results in designations. These designations prevent these individuals and their immediate family members from traveling to the United States.
At last week’s Summit for Democracy, President Biden reaffirmed the United States’ strong commitment to fighting corruption and strengthening rule of law. Over 100 countries, including Georgia, joined. President Biden in endorsing this commitment because we all understand that rule of law is about more than words. It is about justice, and justice is the main principle upholding freedom and democracy. Rule of law requires a legal system where cases are decided fairly and impartially, based on facts, evidence, and law. Not because of a late-night phone call. Not because of a bribe. Not because of intimidation or other pressure.
Every Georgian deserves justice, rule of law, and the right to a fair and independent judicial process, regardless of his or her wealth, family status, or political connections. These designations reflect the importance the U.S. places on countering corruption. Corruption and judicial interference obstruct Georgia’s European integration. The United States continues to support Georgia and its citizens in their European aspirations. This action was taken with that goal in mind.
These designations also demonstrate our continued support to the hard-working, capable, honest, and professional judges throughout Georgia – many of whom I have met. They should be allowed to do their jobs and administer the law free of pressure, intimidation, and interference. For years, we have been urging the government to make meaningful reforms within the judiciary. And we applaud the progress made over the years, often with U.S. support. As many have acknowledged, including the government, there is more work to be done to ensure Georgian citizens have the strong judicial institution they deserve. These judicial reforms are in Georgia’s interest, and they are necessary for Georgia to achieve the Euro-Atlantic future Georgians have long pursued. To win the fight against corruption, to achieve the stable, prosperous, and Euro-Atlantic future the people of Georgia have chosen, Georgia needs a truly impartial, independent judiciary.”
