Non-governmental organizations have released a statement regarding the death of TV Pirveli cameraman Lekso Lashkarava. They demand immediate resignation of the Prime Minister and the Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia.

“We, the undersigned organizations, express our utmost concern and sorrow over the passing of Lekso Lashkarava, the operator of TV Pirveli. We would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.

Following the large-scale violence of July 5, which resulted in dozens of injuries to journalists and civilians and the death of the operator of “TV Pirveli” after sustaining serious injuries, all organizers, participants and perpetrators of violence, regardless of their secular or religious status should be brought to justice.

The political responsibility for the severe consequences lies with the government, which has in fact refused to perform its function to protect human health and life. Therefore, the undersigned organizations request at least:

Immediate resignation of the Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Gharibashvili and the Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia Vakhtang Gomelauri;
Bringing all organizers, participants, and instigators of violence, regardless of their status, to justice”, - reads the statement.