Georgian Parliamentary Speaker demands transparency over British Embassy funding

Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, Shalva Papuashvili, has publicly called on the British Embassy to disclose detailed information about its financial support related to Georgia's 2024 parliamentary elections, as well as any ongoing funding activities.

In a statement shared on social media on Friday, Papuashvili claimed that, following a recent announcement by the British Embassy, suspicions have been raised regarding the nature and intent of the Embassy’s financial activities. According to the Speaker, there were concerns that funds were allocated to promote political propaganda and support what he described as "extremist politicians" with the aim of disrupting local elections.

"I appeal to the British Embassy to disclose who and how much it financed in connection with the 2024 parliamentary elections and who and how much it finances today," Papuashvili wrote. He further urged any individuals who may have information regarding the Embassy’s financing activities to come forward.

The British Embassy recently issued a statement noting the cancellation of planned grant proposals intended to support transparency and competitiveness in Georgia’s municipal elections. The Embassy explained that the decision followed discussions with the Georgian government, which indicated that the resolution on the Grant Approval Procedure had not yet been finalized. As a result, there are currently no established mechanisms or timelines for reviewing or approving such grants.