Protests in Abkhazia: Opposition challenges Russian deal
In the capital of Abkhazia, protesters used a truck to breach the square in front of the parliament. Today, in Sukhumi, members of parliament were unable to approve the agenda and postponed the discussion regarding the investment agreement with Russia—a proposal opposed by many residents and the opposition in Abkhazia.
The MPs could not address the bill due to a lack of quorum, as only 21 of the 35 representatives attended the Abkhazian parliament session. However, the gathered residents are demanding the complete removal of the agreement from the agenda and its return for amendments.
Protesters used a truck to breach the gate in front of the parliament, storming the square. Clashes with police are ongoing. Media reports indicate that shots were fired, and police are deploying smoke bombs.
According to TASS, the Minister of Internal Affairs and the head of Abkhazian security services have come out to negotiate with the protesters.
What is the cause of the conflict?
This past spring, the authorities of Abkhazia attempted to introduce legislation regarding Russian investments. This move sparked public outrage, leading President Aslan Bzhania to withdraw the proposal.
Currently, the opposition accuses the authorities of trying to reintroduce the bill under the guise of the so-called "interdepartmental agreement with Russia on the investment activities of legal entities in the territory of Abkhazia."
The opposition claims this agreement acts as a means to lobby for the interests of entities connected to Alexander Tkachev. These entities are involved in constructing a large tourist complex in the Gagra region and seeking exemptions from local taxes, duties, and other charges.
Why do residents oppose the construction?
The Abkhazian opposition and many residents are first demanding the organization of laws regarding land registry. Currently, the public register of land and buildings is in disarray.
Local communities fear that a rapid increase in uncontrolled housing development will transform the region into a more chaotic version of Sochi. Housing prices could rise, making it difficult for Abkhazians to compete with wealthier residents of major Russian cities.
There is also concern that individuals with Russian passports, including Georgians who fought against Abkhazia in 1992–1993, may begin purchasing real estate in the region. Such actions could lead to demographic changes and potential conflicts.
Protests in pro-Russian Abkhazia
An added problem is the state of infrastructure and public services—both water and electricity supplies are extremely inadequate for the increased demand. For instance, last winter, planned power outages lasted from 4 to 8 hours a day.
Earlier tensions in the region were heightened after local security services detained five opposition members.
Since 1992, Abkhazia has remained outside Georgian government control. The separatist authorities in Abkhazia consider it an independent state; this unilateral declaration of independence happened in 1992. Only a few countries recognize its statehood, including Russia, which acknowledged it in 2008 following a brief war with Georgia.
