Demonstrators in Abkhazia, a Russia-backed breakaway region of Georgia, continued their occupation of the parliament building on Saturday. Their refusal to leave followed President Aslan Bzhania’s offer to resign and call for snap elections if protesters vacated the premises.
Tensions Over Moscow Investment Agreement
The protests erupted in response to an investment deal between Abkhazia and Russia, which protesters claim benefits President Bzhania’s regime more than the region’s people. Despite occupying the parliament in Sukhumi, the protesters stated their actions were not anti-Russian but aimed at challenging what they see as corruption and abuse of power.
Protest representative Adgur Ardzinba announced that they would not vacate until Bzhania formally resigned.
President Offers Conditional Resignation
President Bzhania, speaking from his coastal hometown of Tamysh, promised to step down and hold new elections if protesters left the parliament. “Once they leave the building, I will write my resignation letter. In the new election, we’ll see how much support they get,” Russian news agency RIA quoted him as saying.
He confirmed his intent to run in the proposed election and pledged to restore order. “We have laws, we have a homeland, and we must serve it,” he said during a government meeting.
Government Agencies Pledge Support for President
Abkhazia’s interior ministry and security services stated they would follow the president’s directives. However, the occupation of key government buildings continues, with protesters challenging Bzhania’s legitimacy.
Protesters have accused him of exploiting Abkhazia’s ties with Moscow for personal gain.
Russia Monitors the Situation
Russia, which has recognized Abkhazia as an independent state since 2008 and maintains military bases there, expressed concern over the unrest. The Russian government advised its citizens against traveling to Abkhazia during the crisis.
Abkhazia, along with South Ossetia, declared independence from Georgia after conflicts in the early 1990s. While Moscow supports their autonomy, most of the international community recognizes them as part of Georgia.
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