MP James McLivery calls for UK sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili amid violence in Georgia

James McLivery, a Member of the UK Parliament, has strongly urged the British government to take action and impose sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili, a founder and honorary chair of the ruling party. McLivery, alongside US Congressman Joe Wilson, has called on the UK to stand in solidarity with the people of Georgia in their ongoing fight for democracy.

Reflecting on the recent violence in Georgia over the weekend, McLivery emphasized the urgency of transatlantic cooperation in supporting democratic movements worldwide. “The violence in Georgia this weekend proves why transatlantic cooperation matters,” McLivery stated, underscoring the significant role the UK can play in strengthening Georgia’s democratic aspirations.

As the primary initiator of the proposal in the UK Parliament, McLivery has led a call for sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili, whom he refers to as “Putin’s oligarch puppet”. The proposal has garnered support, with 25 MPs backing the motion as of February 3rd.

The proposal’s aim is to pressure Georgian officials to hold individuals accountable for their role in undermining the country’s democracy and sovereignty, particularly highlighting the influence of Ivanishvili in the ongoing political instability.