Investigation Launched into Charity Fund Iavnana Activities
Georgian news agency IPN reports that the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia (POG) has launched an investigation into the alleged misappropriation and embezzlement of large amounts of money by the charity foundation Iavnana and its Heads.
"Investigation is in progress under article 182 part II of the Criminal Code of Georgia. All necessary investigative and procedural actions will be carried out in the case. The public will be informed about the results of the investigation," the IPN quoted the POG.
The investigation was launched on the basis of the statement of the Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Georgian Young Financiers and Businessmen Association – AFBA.
The video portal POSTV released the investigative film about the founder of the charity fund Iavnana Paata Burchuladze on September 12. Four days later, the second part of the film was also released.
The journalistic investigation said that the foundation heads misappropriated and embezzled the money of the fund, raised for charity.
Last week AFBA released a statement, saying many questions were raised about the legitimacy of accumulation, accounting and expenditure of Iavnana funds.
“It is up to an objective investigation to determine whether there was a criminal offense, such as fraud, robbery and money laundering,” the NGO stated.
Former director and founder of Iavnana, Burchuladze said the accusations are false and are intended to damage the foundation.
The Foundation also responded to the criticism. They released a statement which says that Iavnana's work has always been transparent.
“It is pity that Soviet dirty propaganda that has been repeatedly condemned throughout history, and is trying to establish itself in the 21st century,” the foundation stated.
Chairty foundation Iavnana was established in 2004 by the world-famous Georgian opera singer Paata Burchuladze. The foundation has held meny conerts in Georgia and abroad with the aim to raise money and help children in need, also to assist talented children in their future studies.
In 2006, Burchuladze was made the UN Ambassador of Good Will, while on 3 December 2010, he was awarded the same title by UNICEF.
By Thea Morrison