In the capital of Abkhazia, Sukhumi, serious domestic political tension erupted after the protesters they broke through the gate protecting the parliament building with a truckthen entered the building. The demonstrations started because of a Russian investment agreement, which many consider contrary to local interests and adversely affecting the population. At least nine people were injured during the riots.
According to the Russian-Abkhazian agreement signed in October, Russian legal entities could acquire land and real estate in Abkhazia. The population fears that this will make it impossible for locals to buy real estate, while further increasing Moscow’s political and economic influence in the region.
The antecedents of the demonstrations that on November 11, five opposition activists were detainedwho protested against the contract. Crowds of protesters then gathered at key points in Sukhumi, blocking bridges and roads. The situation escalated on November 15, when hundreds of protesters marched to parliament to block the ratification of the treaty.
The region of Abkhazia belongs to Georgia under international law, but has long enjoyed a certain degree of autonomy. The region broke away from Georgia after the collapse of the Soviet Union, and while Russia recognizes it as an independent state, most of the world’s countries still see it as part of Georgia.
Temur Gulia, one of the leaders of the opposition, stated that initially they only demanded the withdrawal of the agreement, but due to the intensity of the demonstrations, they are now also calling for the resignation of Aszlan Bzanija.
The people want protection for the interests of the local population and will no longer tolerate the excesses of power
The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed concern about the situation, but stated that it does not intend to interfere in the internal affairs of Abkhazia. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Marija Zakharova asked Russian citizens to avoid the region or leave Abkhazia.
The local government announced that it would withdraw the ratification bill, but this did not ease the tension either. According to the opposition, this is just a bid for time, and the government is trying to strengthen its own position.
The current crisis is not unprecedented in Abkhazia. In 2014 and 2020, similar events led to changes in management positions.
Cover photo: Georgian citizens gathered in Tbilisi in front of the parliament building in September to protest Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia and Russia’s occupation policy in Abkhazia and South Ossetia (Photo: AFP)
Source: magyarnemzet.hu
