Presidential Elections in Abkhazia

Polling stations have opened in Abkhazia as presidential elections are underway. The 152 polling stations across the Republic's 35 districts will operate until 20:00. Voting will also take place in Moscow and Cherkessk.

Approximately 128,000 people are eligible to participate in the elections, which represents just over half of Abkhazia's population. Three candidates are taking part in the elections: opposition leader Aslan Bjaniya, former Minister of Internal Affairs Leonid Dzapshba, and former Minister of Economy Adgur Ardzinba.

In addition to the president, a prime minister will also be elected. The election results will be summarized over the following three days. The minimum participation threshold must be at least 50% of voters, and the winner must obtain more than 50% of the votes.

The previous presidential elections in Abkhazia took place in September 2019, where Raul Khajimba emerged victorious. However, following those elections, protests occurred in Abkhazia, resulting in the annulment of the election results and Khajimba's resignation.