The leader of Georgia’s breakaway region of Abkhazia is stepping down after days of mass protests over a pro-Russia open bill.
Aslan Bzhania’s press office said he was stepping down “to preserve stability and constitutional order” and both sides agreed that protesters who stormed the parliament in Sukhumi must disperse on Tuesday.
The bill, which would have legalized Russian investment and land ownership, has been withdrawn.
Abkhazia declared its independence in 1999, and Russia recognized it as an independent country after the Georgia-Russia war in 2008. Georgia says Abkhazia is “owned” by Moscow.
Many countries consider the area on the Black Sea coast to be part of Georgia.
-
Pro-Russia bill sparks protests in breakaway region of Georgia
In a statement posted to Telegram late Monday, Bzhania’s press office said Abkhazia’s parliament would consider his resignation on Tuesday.
It said Bzhania’s supporter will be the acting leader of Abkhazia, who will then oust the current prime minister.
The statement warned that Bzhania would withdraw his resignation if the protesters refused to leave government buildings.
Bzhania describes herself as the president of Abkhazia – Georgia and most of the world does not recognize her authority.
Abkhazia’s opposition has not commented on Bzhania’s proposed resignation.
Located near the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, Abkhazia is known for its natural beauty and coastline, and was one of the most popular holiday destinations for the Soviet elite until the fall of the USSR in 1991.
Locals fear that the proposed bill will cause an influx of Russian investment, price out the local market and strengthen Moscow’s grip on the region.
Backed by Russia, Abkhazia fought a secession war with Georgia in 1992-93, before declaring independence without trial.
The economy of Abkhazia is highly dependent on tourism from Russia.
In 2009, Moscow signed a five-year agreement with Abkhazia to legally control its borders with the rest of Georgia, and in 2014 Moscow and Sukhumi signed a “strategic cooperation” agreement.
Source link
