Protests in Abkhazia in support of oppositionists who opposed ratification of agreement with Russia
Spontaneous protests took place in the capital of the self-proclaimed Republic of Abkhazia, Sukhum, which is under the de facto control of Moscow. They began after the detention of oppositionists who opposed the agreement on Russian investments in the republic.
Protesters blocked three key bridges, demanding the release of the detainees and the cancellation of the ratification of the agreement. President Aslan Bzhania convened an emergency meeting, and military equipment was sent to the building of the presidential administration.
It is noted that a state of emergency has been declared in the country.
According to the opposition, the agreement between Abkhazia and Russia is lobbying for the interests of Russian structures, primarily those associated with the former head of the Russian Ministry of Agriculture, Alexander Tkachev. His companies are building a tourist complex in the Gagra region and are trying to promote exemption from local taxes and duties.
In addition, residents of Abkhazia believe that a sharp increase in residential construction will raise housing prices. As a result, Abkhazians will not be able to compete with wealthier residents of large Russian cities.
