Soner Gogua: Abkhazian War Veteran, Politician, and Public Figure Passes Away
Soner Gogua: Abkhazian Patriotic War Veteran, Politician, and Public Figure.
SUKHUM / AQW'A ― Soner Gogua, a veteran of the Patriotic War of the People of Abkhazia and former deputy of the fourth convocation of the Parliament, has passed away after a prolonged illness. Public figure Oktay Chkotua confirmed the news.
Chkotua emphasised Gogua's contributions during the most challenging period of Abkhazia's modern history, where he fought for the region's freedom and independence. Post-war, Gogua played a crucial role in developing Abkhazia's economy and actively participated in philanthropic activities.
Born on August 19, 1971, in Turkey to a family of Abkhaz exiles, Soner Gogua entered the Abkhaz State University in 1990, majoring in Abkhaz language and literature. He actively took part in the Abkhazian Patriotic War between 1992 and 1993, earning the Medal for Courage and the III degree Order of "Akhdz-Apsha."
Throughout his career, Gogua served as the authorised representative of the Abkhaz Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Turkey and later as its vice-president. In 2007, he was elected to the People's Assembly of the Republic of Abkhazia. Gogua became the President of the International Fund "Apsny" in 2016.