The below signatory organizations condemn the incident that occurred on January 3, 2017 in the village of Duisi, Akhmeta Municipality, when unidentified individuals set Duisi Culture House on fire. Kakheti Regional Development Fund (KRDF) is located in the Culture House. 

As a result of attempts made by KRDF, many important events are taking place in Duisi Culture House with the aim of promoting development of Pankisi Gorge and providing specific education to local youth in Akhmeta Municipality. KRDF also provided grants for supporting small enterprises. The Culture House is the only facility of its kind that has been operating in Pankisi Gorge for 15 years now and is highly appreciated by local population. 

It was reported on WAY community radio of Pankisi that on January 3, gasoline was spilled on the second floor of the building, on several areas including the hallway. Entrance door and a small part of the floor have been burnt. 

We must also note that over the last two months, there have been frequent negative and threatening statements made against the KRDF, especially on social media. 

The below signatory organizations express our support for the KRDF and we urge the law enforcement authorities to investigate the incident in a timely and effective manner, in order to prevent any suspicions and mistrust within the community. They should also ensure safety of the KRDF employees on as needed basis. Failure to investigate the case and identify perpetrators may result in ethnic or religious disagreement in Pankisi Gorge. 

Signatory organizations: 

Georgian Reforms Association - GRASS

Transparency International Georgia 

International Society for Fair Elections and Democracy

Media Development Foundation

World Experience for Georgia