Lelo Party Presents 'Georgia Protection Act': A 9-Point Plan to Counter Russian Influence
By Liza Mchedlidze
Tuesday, November 21, 2023
The opposition Lelo party has formulated a comprehensive 9-point plan titled the "Georgia Protection Act" with the primary objective of eliminating Russian influence in Georgia.
Presented by Lelo leader Mamuka Khazaraze on November 20, the plan outlines nine key steps to safeguard the country's interests:
Full Integration with EU Sanctions: The establishment of visa regulations for Russian citizens is crucial. Currently, Georgia is the only occupied country globally where occupiers enjoy nearly the same rights as our citizens. The objective is to keep Georgia open to tourists while preventing occupiers from having the same privileges.
Protection of the Employment Market: Unemployment is the primary issue in Georgia today, largely due to the influx of Russians replacing Georgians in lucrative jobs. Consequently, the second paragraph of the 'Georgia Protection Act' imposes restrictions on the right to work for Russian citizens.
Limiting the Sale of Land: The sovereignty of a country is unmistakably expressed through its land, which belongs to its people and not to any occupier. It is imperative that occupiers do not have unrestricted rights to purchase our lands. Consequently, the third paragraph of the 'Georgia Protection Act' advocates for the complete prohibition of selling land to them.
Prohibition of Vehicles with Russian License Plates: The 'Georgia Protection Act' mandates the prohibition of vehicles with Russian license plates from entering our country, a measure already implemented in many EU countries.
Prohibition of Participation in State Tenders for Russian Companies: The funds paid by Georgian taxpayers should not end up in the pockets of Russians. Therefore, the 'Georgia Protection Act' prohibits Russian citizens and companies from participating in tenders. It's time to halt the enrichment of Russians through the 'Georgian Dream.' 'Lelo' aims to ensure that Georgian money benefits Georgians directly.
Imposition of Occupation Fee for Russian Business: We propose the establishment of an 'occupancy fee' in all municipalities. This fee would be applicable to Russian businesses owned by Russian citizens, with the collected funds dedicated to supporting internally displaced persons from the occupied territories.
Flight Ban: We call for a prohibition on direct flights with the Russian Federation as these flights primarily cater to the convenience of Russian citizens and do not contribute to the well-being of Georgian citizens.
Prohibition of Broadcasting Russian TV Channels: The uncontrolled broadcasting of Russian propaganda TV channels in Georgia should be banned.
Prohibition of Russian Funds: To prohibit the activities of Russian foundations in Georgia that serve the Kremlin's occupation policy.
