The de facto president of occupied Abkhazia, Aslan Bzhania, has expressed willingness to step down, provided the opposition vacates ”government buildings.” Speaking from his native village of Tamish, Bzhania addressed his supporters about his readiness to relinquish power under specific conditions.
“The lawful president of Abkhazia remains on its territory. The 2014 scenario will not be repeated… Those who occupied [government buildings], those who attempted a coup, must vacate the complex.
After that, I am ready to schedule elections, resign, and participate in the elections. Until then, the vice-president will govern the country,” Bzhania stated.
This follows his earlier remarks on November 15, during ongoing protests, where he refused to resign despite calls from the de facto opposition. “The president, the prime minister, and heads of ministries and agencies remain in place and will continue working. Please do not fall for provocations. I am staying in Abkhazia and will work as before. Negotiations with the opposition are ongoing,” Bzhania stated on Friday.
The protests, fueled by an investment agreement with Russia that has since been withdrawn, saw opposition supporters occupying “state buildings” and breaking into the gate of the de facto parliament. Police forces deployed tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.
