Detention of Former UNM Official in Kazakhstan Amid Russian Indictment

Levan Varshalomidze, former chairman of the Government of Adjara, was arrested in Kazakhstan due to a Russian indictment related to his political consulting in Ukraine. UNM member Levan Bezhashvili claims the charges are unfounded and seeks diplomatic intervention for his release.

Levan Varshalomidze, a former chairman of the Government of Adjara and a member of the Unity-UNM party, was apprehended at a Kazakhstan airport on March 18. This information was disclosed by Levan Bezhashvili, a representative of the UNM, who expressed concerns regarding Varshalomidze’s potential extradition to Russia based on an alleged indictment.

Bezhashvili contended that the charges against Varshalomidze are unfounded, stemming from his political consulting work with the Ukrainian government. He has called for effective communication to facilitate Varshalomidze’s release and to ensure that the subsequent decision favors both Georgia and Kazakhstan.

At the age of 53, Varshalomidze had a prominent political career, serving as the head of Adjara’s government from 2004 to 2012. He played a crucial role in the redevelopment of Adjara, particularly the capital city, Batumi. Following his time in Adjara, he became an adviser to Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko in 2015, leading a team of Georgian experts to assist with reform initiatives in Ukraine.

In summary, Levan Varshalomidze’s detention in Kazakhstan poses a significant concern due to possible extradition to Russia, linked to allegations related to his consulting work in Ukraine. The UNM party argues that these charges are baseless and advocates for his release through proper diplomatic channels. Varshalomidze’s political history underscores his importance, particularly in the redevelopment efforts in Adjara.

Original Source: civil.ge