International Observers Report Fair Election Process in Abkhazia
International observers report no significant irregularities affecting the election results.
SUKHUM / AQW’A — International observers monitoring Abkhazia’s presidential elections have shared their assessments, concluding that no violations occurred that could have influenced the election results. Their statements were made at a press briefing held at the International Press Centre of Abkhazia’s Central Election Commission (CEC).
Ali Zahdud, a member of Tunisia’s Assembly of the People’s Representatives, emphasised the importance of international observers in ensuring the legitimacy of the electoral process.
"International observers not only guarantee the legitimacy of elections but also demonstrate that the people of Abkhazia take democratic principles seriously and uphold them at an international level," said Zahdud.
He noted that the elections were conducted transparently and in accordance with democratic standards. Zahdud also highlighted the CEC’s responsiveness in resolving minor issues and procedural challenges at polling stations.
"After the vote count, I initially faced restrictions in accessing the election protocol and was not allowed to take a photograph of it. However, after reaching out to the CEC, a prompt call was made, granting us access to the protocol and permission to document it," he explained.
Expressing his satisfaction with the electoral process, Zahdud stated his willingness to return as an international observer for the second round of the election. He also wished the people of Abkhazia success in securing their future and remaining committed to democratic principles.
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Senator Laura Migelina Parraga León de Chauca of Bolivia’s Plurinational Legislative Assembly also reported no irregularities that could have impacted the election outcome.
"We spent the entire day at polling stations and observed no violations that could have influenced the results or any dissatisfaction from voters. We concluded our observation by witnessing the vote count, and at our station, all votes matched precisely," she stated.
Parraga León de Chauca expressed her gratitude to the CEC for allowing international observers to witness the election process firsthand. She also underscored the significance of international election monitoring, advocating for its continued development.
The overall conduct and organisation of the election were also praised by other international observers, including:
- Vito Grittani (Italy)
- Petros Woldegiorgis Woldesenbet (Ethiopia)
- Goran Šimpraga (Serbia)
- Goran Dimov (North Macedonia)
- Mohammad Sayed Bahmani (Iran)
The second round of Abkhazia’s presidential elections is scheduled to take place by 1 March, in accordance with Abkhazian electoral law.
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