According to Judge Lasha Chkhikvadze, the United States has interfered with the legal system of Georgia. Chkhikvadze said that he was questioned by the American Embassy about his decision to imprison Nika Gvaramia, the head of Mtavari Arkhi TV. The US ambassador to Georgia, Kelly Degnan, disagreed with this claim. She said that the idea that the US is meddling in Georgia's judicial system is just wrong.
In remarks to the press following the conclusion of a U.S. government-sponsored National Response Framework Executive Seminar, Degnan stressed, "We've spent years assisting Georgia in establishing an independent, impartial, and transparent court. It is an integral part of our efforts to assist Georgia in strengthening its legal system. "
When asked why Chkhikvadze was not sent on a U.S. exchange programme for judges shortly after Gvaramia's verdict, the ambassador responded: "I am unable to react on behalf of the judge. That is not the proper course of action. I can assure you that our programmes are available to a large number of judicial professionals interested in exchanging ideas and best practises with their American counterparts."
In reaction to recent charges of media surveillance following the release of a secret tape of Mtavari Arkhi TV journalists, the Ambassador stated, "This is a reminder of why we are so worried about reports of surveillance and monitoring of journalists and others in Georgia." She stated, "The present surveillance method because it was incompatible with best practises and European Union law, we urged the legislature to delay its passage. This is why we have persevered in requesting a full investigation into the information leaks involving the monitoring of the Georgian Orthodox Church, diplomats, and other individuals last fall."
The Ambassador highlighted, "This remains a source of concern for those of us in Georgia who seek a free and open society. If Georgians want to receive accurate news, the media must be permitted to cover stories without fear of being attacked, harassed, or intimidated."
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