According to findings by Transparency International Georgia, 24 incumbent public officials have been identified in Georgia who, contrary to the explicit requirements of the law, concurrently hold directorships in 30 companies.
According to the NGO, these officials include:
- Giorgi Nachkebia, Mayor of Martvili Municipality;
- Temur Gasviani, Deputy Minister of Justice and Civil Integration of the Autonomous Republic of Abkhazia;
- Merab Bekaia, Deputy Head of the Administration (Gamgebeli) of the Isani District;
- Valentina Naveriani, Deputy Mayor of Bolnisi Municipality.
The organization notes that, under current anti-corruption legislation, public service (including holding leadership positions) and managing a commercial entity are mutually incompatible activities.
“The purpose of this restriction is to prevent corrupt practices, as unhealthy ties between the public and private sectors generate corruption risks, particularly elite corruption,” the statement reads.
The law provides a newly appointed official with a 10-day deadline to resign from directorship positions in a business entity; otherwise, the individual is obligated to leave public office.
Transparency International notes that the 24 incumbent officials have yet to comply with this clear statutory requirement.