BNN REPORTS | USA continues observing Latvia’s treatment of sanctioned and suspended Ventspils mayor
by BNN
US Department of the Treasury press-representative Zach Isakowitz told BNN in regards to the sanctions imposed by the US against suspended Ventspils mayor Aivars Lembergs: «We continue to monitor and assess the impact of our sanctions against corrupt actors, and seek opportunities to build on and enhance the effectiveness of our actions to bring about a change in behaviour.»
He stresses that «The United States continues to work closely with the Government of Latvia to address corruption, as it deprives the Latvian people of resources, basic essential services, and economic opportunities.»
«Aivars Lembergs has systematically exploited political connections for his own economic gain, subverting rule of law in Latvia to the detriment of the Latvian people,» US Department of the Treasury press-representative told BNN.
Isakowitz told BNN that «OFAC’s action against Aivars Lembergs under the Global Magnitsky sanctions program underscores the U.S. commitment to Latvia and our determination to hold corrupt oligarchs accountable for their actions against a key European ally».
He adds: «We applaud the Government of Latvia for its swift response to OFAC’s designation of Mr. Lembergs, including the passing of relevant legislation which resulted in OFAC’s removal of sanctions on the Ventspils Freeport Authority».
It should be added that Lembergs and the inability of Latvian law enforcement and government institutions in dealing with him has been reported by media outside of Latvia.
More on this topic: Major Swiss newspaper reports on corrupt Latvian mayor
As previously reported, on 9 December 2019 US Department of the Treasury Office for Foreign Asset Control (OFAC), based on so-called Magnitsky Law, established sanctions against Aivars Lembergs and four legal persons associated with him – Ventspils Freeport authority, Ventspils Development Agency, Business Development Association and Latvian Transit Business association. Later, however, sanctions were lifted from Ventspils Freeport and Ventspils Freeport authority.
According to OFAC, Lembergs has used his influence over leadership of political parties to shape government personnel and place certain government officials in positions, as well as to obstruct other government officials from obtaining leadership positions. Additionally, Lembergs has leveraged and corrupted law enforcement officials to protect his interests and subvert politicians whom he otherwise was unable to control.
Latvia’s Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) has commenced an investigation of the report from OFAC, regarding the possible corruption employed by the suspended Ventspils mayor Aivars Lembergs on officials.