Abkhazia’s President Resigns Amid Protests Over Controversial Property Deal.
The president of Abkhazia, Aslan Bzhania, has announced his resignation following mass protests against a contentious investment agreement, which critics claim could bolster Russia’s influence over the region.
The unrest erupted on November 15, when demonstrators stormed government buildings in the capital, Sukhumi, forcing Bzhania to flee. This wave of protests has thrown the self-declared republic into political disarray.
Despite stepping down, Bzhania has warned that his resignation is conditional. He stated that if protesters do not vacate the occupied government buildings by Tuesday, he will withdraw his resignation. Furthermore, Bzhania has stipulated that he must be allowed to participate in the next presidential elections as part of the agreement.
Prime Minister Alexander Ankvab has also confirmed his intention to leave office alongside Bzhania. In the interim, Vice President Badra Gunba will assume the role of acting president, while former parliamentary speaker Valery Bganba will step in as interim prime minister.
The protests were triggered by opposition to a proposed “property agreement” between Abkhazia and Russia. The deal, which was scheduled for parliamentary discussion on November 17, would allow Russian companies to invest in the region.
Critics of the agreement argue that it could drive up property prices and deepen Moscow’s influence over Abkhazia. Many residents fear that the region, already heavily reliant on Russia, may become increasingly subservient to its larger neighbor.
Abkhazia declared independence from Georgia following a conflict that ended in 1993. Georgia lost control of the region entirely during a brief war with Russia in 2008. While Russia recognizes Abkhazia as an independent state, much of the international community views it as part of Georgia.
Concerns about Russian dominance have persisted among Abkhazians, despite the region’s heavy dependence on Moscow for economic and military support. With a population of around 245,000, many residents worry about the long-term implications of closer ties with Russia.
The situation remains fluid as Abkhazia’s political leadership attempts to navigate this period of unrest and uncertainty.
Source: Associated Press
