Lembergs turns to US court over sanctions

Take note – story published 3 years ago

Ventspils former mayor Aivars Lembergs, suspended in connection with the sanctions imposed on him last year, turned to the US court against the US Treasury's Office for Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and its head, said the Minister of Justice Jānis Bordāns (New Conservative Party) on Latvian Television Thursday, August 20.

“The Ministry of Justice has information that on August 11 this year Aivars Lembergs has sued the US District Court for Office for Foreign Assets Control of the US Treasury and its head. He requested a guarantee for that claim. The requirement he will raise will be apparently about removing sanctions imposed on him,” Bordāns said.

In December 2019, Lembergs was sanctioned by the US OFAC, who declared: "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 corrupted law enforcement officials to protect his interests." 

Later, he was banned entry to the US.

Lembergs, long-time city mayor, wealthy businessman and an influential figure, has been on trial on corruption charges for 11 years. The case has yet to reach a verdict.

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