In a dramatic turn of events, protesters have stormed the parliament in the breakaway Georgian region of Abkhazia, igniting chaos over a controversial proposal that would permit Russians to buy property in this contested territory. The unrest erupted as demonstrators clashed with police, forcing the parliament in Sukhumi to postpone a crucial session that was set to discuss the ratification of this contentious measure.
Fueled by anger, protesters used a truck to breach the metal gates of the parliament, with shocking footage capturing individuals climbing through windows and chanting defiantly in the corridors. Emergency services reported that at least eight people were injured and required hospitalization. Eshsou Kakalia, a prominent opposition leader, declared that the parliament building was now under the control of the protesters, who are demanding the resignation of Abkhazia’s current president. The situation escalated further as protesters also infiltrated the presidential administration offices located within the same complex.
Investment Agreement Sparks Outrage
The turmoil stems from an investment agreement signed in Moscow that would allow Russian entities to invest in Abkhazia, raising fears among locals that they would be priced out of the property market. The presidential administration has announced plans to withdraw the controversial agreement amid mounting public pressure. Abkhazia, a region with a population of around 245,000, has long been a popular tourist destination for Russians, but many locals feel their interests are being overlooked.
Opposition leaders have emphasized that their protests are not against Russian-Abkhazian relations but rather a plea to safeguard the rights and interests of Abkhaz citizens. Earlier this week, tensions escalated when protesters blocked a major highway and rallied in Sukhumi, demanding the release of four activists detained for opposing a law linked to the Russian-Abkhazian agreement. This is not the first time Abkhazia has seen such unrest; previous protests have led to significant political changes, including the ousting of leaders amid accusations of corruption and misrule.
