Abkhazia’s Presidential Elections Underway
The voting process will continue until 8:00 PM, after which ballot counting will commence.
SUKHUM / AQW’A — Voting in Abkhazia’s early presidential elections is underway, with polling stations across the republic opening at 8:00 AM on Saturday. The voting process will continue until 8:00 PM, after which ballot counting will commence.
Chairman of the Central Election Commission (CEC), Dmitry Marshan, confirmed that all 152 polling stations across Abkhazia opened on time. Additionally, two polling stations in Russia, located in Moscow and Cherkessk (Karachay-Cherkessia), also began operations as scheduled.
According to Marshan, the elections are being closely followed by approximately 150 journalists, while more than 100 international observers are monitoring the process.
Five Candidates Compete for the Presidency
The presidential race features five contenders:
- Badra Gunba
- Adgur Ardzinba
- Robert Arshba
- Oleg Bartsits
- Adgur Khurkhumal
Electoral System and Voter Eligibility
The presidential election in Abkhazia is conducted through direct voting. All Abkhazian citizens aged 18 and above have the right to vote. Participation in the election is entirely voluntary, and voters can cast their ballots at designated polling stations. The elections are overseen by the Central Election Commission (CEC) to ensure transparency and compliance with electoral regulations.
To secure a victory in the first round, a candidate must receive more than 50% of the votes cast. If no candidate meets this threshold, a second round (runoff election) will be held between the top two candidates. However, under Abkhazia’s electoral law, a candidate can only win the second round if they receive more votes than both their opponent and the combined total of votes cast for the "Against All Candidates" option.
Turnout Updates Expected Soon
As the election progresses, updates on voter turnout and preliminary results are expected later in the day. The CEC will continue to provide information on the election process as it unfolds.
See also: 2025 Abkhazian Presidential Election: Key Information & Process
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