**US Congress Introduces Bill to Sanction Georgian Government Officials**
Two US lawmakers have introduced a bill to impose sanctions on Georgian government officials accused of human rights abuses and undermining democracy. The MEGOBARI Act, reintroduced by Representatives Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) and Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), aims to hold individuals responsible for suppressing democratic freedoms in Georgia accountable.
The bill requires the US executive branch to investigate members of the ruling party, Georgian Dream, and their families for corruption and undermining sovereignty. It also calls for the US government to report on Russian intelligence assets in Georgia.
Georgia has faced growing international criticism over its human rights record and commitment to democracy. The Biden administration has previously imposed sanctions on Georgian Dream officials for anti-democratic actions. This new bill seeks to take further action against those responsible.
**US Congress Supports Democracy in Georgia**
The introduction of the MEGOBARI Act comes as Georgia faces increased repression, international isolation, and democratic backsliding. The US government has already imposed sanctions and travel bans on Georgian Dream officials for various anti-democratic actions.
Representative Joe Wilson stated that it is a priority to ensure an end to what he called “the Georgian Nightmare” and stop the “Axis of Aggressors” from terrorizing the people of Georgia.
**New Congress, New Push for US Support**
The bill’s introduction marks one of the first bipartisan efforts in the new US Congress. Representative Steve Cohen commented that even before being sworn in, the US Congress is standing with the people of Georgia.
While the initial intention was to pass the bill before October’s parliamentary elections, it was previously dropped due to other priorities. However, this time, the legislation is expected to be pushed through.
**Additional Efforts to Support Georgian Democracy**
In addition to the MEGOBARI Act, Representative Joe Wilson has announced plans to introduce another bill, the “Georgian Nightmare Non-Recognition Act,” which would prohibit US recognition of Georgia’s current government and recognize President Zurabishvili as the legitimate leader until free and fair elections are held.
The Biden administration recently sanctioned Bidzina Ivanishvili, Georgian Dream’s honorary chairman, for undermining democratic processes on behalf of or for the benefit of the Russian government. Dozens of Georgian officials and nationals have been sanctioned by the US in recent months for corruption and undermining democracy in Georgia.
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