Shalva Papuashvili, the Georgian Parliament Speaker, on Wednesday said “seems” the United States had shared the stance of the Georgian Dream authorities on David Kezerashvili, the wanted former Defence Minister of Georgia, and rejected his request for a visa.
The comment came following the reports on the rejection of the visa and Kezerashvili’s subsequent lawsuit, following BBC’s investigation last year which pointed to the former Georgian official’s alleged connection with an international scam scheme defrauding European pensioners, after his conviction in Tbilisi in absentia for embezzlement of state funds while in office under the United National Movement Government.
Papuashvili emphasized Kezerashvili’s criminal record, lamenting that despite being convicted by Georgian courts, he continues to move freely within the EU. He highlighted the need for vigilance within the EU regarding individuals with criminal backgrounds gaining entry.
He also pointed out instances of Kezerashvili’s alleged interference in Georgian politics, citing his meetings with Kurt Walker, “the spouse of a leading figure at the Georgian branch of Voice of America,” and interactions with the domestic Rondeli Foundation, which he sad had been critical of Georgian government initiatives and actions.
Papuashvili raised concerns about Kezerashvili’s alleged involvement in money laundering and his ties to various political entities and media outlets in Georgia.
Furthermore, Papuashvili questioned the role of the European Democracy Fund, alleging that it covertly channeled EU funds into Georgia and potentially supported parties in violation of regulations. He urged the European Union to clarify its procedures to prevent EU funds “from mingling with illicit money and being used to advance radical agendas”
Papuashvili also criticized what he perceived as hypocrisy within certain segments of Georgian civil society and media, accusing them of receiving funds of dubious origins while advocating for transparency and the rule of law.
The basis for the visa denial, as stated in the lawsuit, stems from a decision by the US Customs and Border Protection Agency dated May 1, 2023, under a specific section which pertains to suspicions of money laundering.
The lawsuit, available on Courtlistener.com, revealed Kezerashvili applied for a US visa at the US Embassy in Cyprus on April 4, 2023, and received the refusal on July 18, 2023.
