Protests Erupt in Abkhazia as Citizens Demand President’s Resignation Over Moscow Investment Deal

Protests in Abkhazia Demand President’s Resignation

Protesters stormed the parliament in Abkhazia, a Russian-backed breakaway region of Georgia, on Friday. They demanded the resignation of President Aslan Bzhania over an unpopular investment deal with Moscow.

Bzhania, self-styled president since 2020, stated he has no plans to step down. He indicated that talks with opposition leaders are ongoing.

In response to the crisis, Russia expressed concern and advised its citizens against traveling to Abkhazia. The Kremlin recognized Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states in 2008, following a brief war with Georgia. Russia maintains troops and supports both regions financially.

In Sukhumi, the capital of Abkhazia, protesters used a truck to break through parliament’s gates. They climbed through windows and stormed the presidential administration offices. Emergency services reported at least nine injuries during the unrest.

Protesters initially aimed to revoke the investment agreement, which critics believe could allow wealthy Russians to buy up local property. However, opposition leader Temur Gulia stated the crowd’s demands have escalated to calling for Bzhania’s removal. He emphasized, “The people demand the resignation of Aslan Bzhania.”

Another opposition leader, Eshsou Kakalia, declared that protesters would not leave until their demands were met. Meanwhile, the presidential administration hinted at withdrawing the investment agreement.

Olesya Vartanyan, a regional expert, noted the rising tensions reflect increasing Russian pressure for more concessions from Abkhazia in exchange for financial support. She remarked that the consistent question from Russia is why Abkhazia does not allow Russian citizens to buy property.

If Bzhania is ousted, he will be the third leader to be toppled in this manner since 2008. After gaining recognition from Moscow, local leaders often become beholden to the Kremlin.

Most countries regard Abkhazia as part of Georgia, which lost control after conflicts in the early 1990s. The opposition insists their actions are not against Russian-Abkhaz relations but accuse Bzhania of using those ties for personal gain.

The protesters only seek to protect the interests of local citizens and businesses.