Parliament official calls MEGOBARI Act lobbyist-crafted legislation, labels US Congressman Joe Wilson “ordinary lobbyist”

Levan Machavariani, an MP from the ruling Georgian Dream party and Deputy Chair of the parliamentary faction of the ruling party, on Thursday said MEGOBARI Act was simply a piece of legislation crafted by lobbying groups and US Congressman Joe Wilson was just an “ordinary lobbyist” who would write and say whatever he was paid to.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Machavariani noted that the Georgian Parliament responded to the MEGOBARI Act by clearly explaining, based on evidence, how many falsehoods were written in it.

“Over the past three to four years, the steps we have taken are not just words; they are supported by facts that demonstrate we have established ourselves as a sovereign, independent, and honourable state. We respond to all forms of injustice. This so-called MEGOBARI Act, which in reality is a hostile Act based on factual inaccuracies, includes three main narratives that are completely absurd. Of course, we had to respond to this absurdity, because we are accountable to our people. Our citizens are proud, as we are a proud nation with deep traditions, and naturally, they expected an appropriate response from us. The response from the Parliament was adequate and clear. We explained, based on facts and evidence, how many falsehoods are contained in this MEGOBARI Act”, the Parliament official said.

Machavariani further noted that the work on this Act began during Biden's administration, with Joe Wilson at the forefront.

“Then, Antony Blinken visited Mongolia and stated that it is an oasis of democracy. This Act is progressing with inertia, and it discusses, for example, that Georgia should be freed from the influence of Russia, China, and Iran. We have no relations with Russia. No one can provide an example of any Russian-related action we've taken, and we have no diplomatic ties with them. Russia is an occupier, and of course, when our diplomatic conversations begin, they will certainly focus on the issue of de-occupation. We have friendly relations with China”, he continued.

“This is a real strategic partnership. Where is the Chinese influence here? It’s a partnership, not influence, and China is a country that wants to build closer relations with the entire world. Where is the Iranian influence felt? Maybe someone can provide us with an example. This is, of course, filled with lies, it’s a talking point for the opposition to supply them with some kind of oxygen”, Machavariani concluded.