**US House Passes MEGOBARI Act: A Major Blow to Georgian Dream Party**
In a significant move, the US House of Representatives has passed the MEGOBARI Act, a legislation aimed at countering Russia’s influence in Georgia. The bill received strong support from both Republicans and Democrats, with 349 votes in favor, including 168 Republicans and 181 Democrats. Only 42 representatives voted against it.
The passage of this act is a major blow to the Georgian Dream party (GD), which has been accused of being influenced by Russia and aligning itself with US adversaries like China, Iran, and Russia. The GD party’s officials have responded with anger, describing the bill as “unfriendly,” “unfair,” and “trivial.” Meanwhile, opposition representatives have praised the move, stating that Ivanishvili’s regime will face further sanctions and grave political consequences.
**Georgian Officials in Crosshairs**
Rep. Joe Wilson, co-chair of the US Helsinki Commission, has released a list of Georgian officials he labels as “enablers of Bidzina Ivanishvili’s state capture.” The list includes Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, and Foreign Affairs Minister Maka Botchorishvili, among others. Wilson has accused these officials of aligning Georgia with US adversaries.
**Reactions from Georgian Politicians**
The passage of the MEGOBARI Act has prompted a backlash from the ruling GD party. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has been congratulating other world leaders, including the new Chancellor of Germany, while criticizing the German Ambassador in Tbilisi. This move is seen as an attempt to deflect attention from the controversy surrounding the bill.
In another development, Kobakhidze has appointed new governors for five regions of Georgia. Critics argue that this move is aimed at tightening the ruling party’s grip on the regions ahead of local elections in October.
**Human Rights Concerns**
The Georgian government has also come under fire for its treatment of human rights activists and foreign nationals. In April, 96 foreign nationals were expelled from the country, with some individuals leaving voluntarily and others being deported due to enforcement actions by the Migration Department. The Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association (GYLA) has decried the deportation of Temur Katamadze, stating that the court’s refusal to grant him international protection was unlawful and unsubstantiated.
The MEGOBARI Act is a significant step towards countering Russia’s influence in Georgia. As the opposition continues to pressure the ruling GD party, it remains to be seen how these developments will play out in the country’s politics.
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