Seven Deputies Oppose "Investment Agreement" Ahead of Key Parliamentary Vote
Four MPs announced at a public meeting that they will vote against the 'Investment Agreement'.
SUKHUM / AQW’A — Seven members of the Abkhazian Parliament have announced their opposition to the contentious "Investment Agreement" ahead of a crucial vote on 15 November. The agreement has sparked widespread debate, with critics claiming it undermines Abkhazia’s sovereignty by granting significant privileges to Russian investors.
A meeting held today at the Atrium Victoria Hotel in Sukhum focused on the agreement. Although all 11 parliamentary representatives from Sukhum and the Sukhum district were invited, only four attended: Kan Kvarchia, Naur Narmania, Erik Rshtuni, and Demur Gogia. These four MPs publicly declared at the meeting that they would vote against the agreement.
Three additional MPs, Daut Khutaba, Inar Sadzba, and Dmitry Marshan, have also voiced their opposition, issuing statements on their social media accounts. Together, the seven deputies form a vocal bloc against the proposal.
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The agreement, formally titled the "Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of the Republic of Abkhazia on the Implementation of Investment Projects by Russian Legal Entities in the Territory of the Republic of Abkhazia," has drawn criticism for obligating Abkhazia to approve proposed investment projects, allocate land and infrastructure, and offer substantial tax exemptions. Opponents argue that the terms heavily favour external interests while limiting local control.
Abkhazia’s 35-member Parliament is set to vote on the agreement in a closely watched session. Opposition groups are demanding its withdrawal from consideration and are preparing for mass protests in the lead-up to the vote.