Two allies of Georgian president charged with corruption
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 21 December 2012 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Two allies of Georgian president charged with corruption, 21 December 2012, available at: http://www.refworld.org/docid/50ed342ba.html [accessed 18 May 2013] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
December 21, 2012
Nika Gvaramia
Two top allies of Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili have been officially charged with corruption.
Rustavi-2 television General Director Nika Gvaramia and Aleko Khetaguri, who served as finance and energy minister, were charged on December 21 with accepting bribes, falsifying documents, and engaging in illegal commercial activities.
Khetaguri has also been charged with money laundering.
Four other men have been arrested and similarly charged in connection with the case.
If convicted, Gvaramia and Khetaguri could face up to 15 years in prison.
Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili said on December 21 that it would have been better if Gvaramia had not been detained, and he expressed the hope that he would be released on bail.
Saakashvili's United National Movement has said the arrest is an attempt to pressure the media in Georgia.
Based on reporting by GeorgiaOnline and AP
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
