“The US Embassy in Tbilisi extends our deepest condolences to the family of Lekso Lashkarava, particularly to Lekso’s mother, and to his colleagues at TV Pirveli and all those who are shocked and saddened by his death,” reads the statement released by the US Embassy in connection with the death of TV Pirveli cameraman Lekso Laskharava.
“Lekso worked behind the camera so despite his years of service as a media professional, many might not have recognized him before he was viciously attacked by people who demonstrated a complete lack of respect for human life. His bravery as he defended his colleague and his commitment to the fundamental freedoms long cherished in this country represent the best qualities and traditions of the people of Georgia.
“The arrest of several individuals in connection with the attack on Lekso is a positive first step toward justice. The safety of every Georgian journalist and the credibility of democracy in Georgia require that every individual who attacked peaceful citizens and journalists on July 5 and 6, or who incited violence, must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
“We call for calm and an end to the violence that has already caused one tragic loss of life,” reads the statement.
EU Ambassador to Georgia Carl Hartzell also responded to the tragic death of the media employee, saying: “Mr. Lekso Lashkarava was severely beaten as he was covering the violence that took place in Tbilisi around the Pride events on 5 July. While still awaiting the results of the investigation into the cause of his death, let me reiterate the EU’s strong condemnation of all violence and our staunch and unwavering support to the freedom of media and assembly.”
By Ana Dumbadze
Related Story: Carl Hartzell: Lekso Lashkarava was Severely Beaten as He was Covering Violence on July 5
