Abkhazia Holds Second Round of Presidential Elections

SUKHUM / AQW’A — The second round of Abkhazia’s early presidential election is underway, with voters choosing between Adgur Ardzinba, former Minister of Economy and chairman of the opposition movement Abkhaz People’s Movement, and Badra Gunba, the former Vice President of the republic.

In the first round on 15 February, Gunba secured 46.38% of the vote (45,817 votes), while Ardzinba received 36.92% (36,476 votes). Both candidates were nominated by initiative groups.

Election Process and Turnout

Polling stations across Abkhazia opened at 08:00 local time, with voting proceeding smoothly and in accordance with established procedures. The Central Election Commission (CEC) has reported no significant irregularities or disruptions. More than 1,000 law enforcement officers have been deployed throughout the country to ensure public order, with additional security provided at polling stations abroad, including in Moscow and Cherkessk.

According to the latest data from the CEC, as of 15:00, voter turnout reached 43%, with 62,842 citizens having cast their ballots. The election is considered valid as the required 25% minimum turnout has been exceeded.

Regional Turnout at 15:00

• Gagra District – 41%
• Gudauta District – 44%
• Sukhum District – 43%
• City of Sukhum – 43%
• Gulripsh District – 41%
• Ochamchira District – 42%
• Tquarchal District – 46%
• Gal District – 43%

Abkhazian citizens abroad continue to participate actively, with 1,450 voters in Moscow and 1,420 in Cherkessk having cast their ballots by mid-afternoon.

Candidates Cast Their Votes

Both presidential candidates have participated in the election process. Adgur Ardzinba voted in New Athos, stating:

"I voted for stability, for development, for reforms, for closer and more transparent relations with Russia. Most importantly, I voted for the Abkhaz people to determine their own destiny and remain the true masters of their land."

Meanwhile, Badra Gunba cast his vote in Sukhum, expressing confidence in the electorate’s decision:

"I am confident that the people of Abkhazia will make the right choice, one that will help our country move forward."

International Observers and Election Monitoring

The election is being monitored by international observers from 30 countries, including representatives from Latin America, Europe, and Russia. Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Shamba stated that observers have not reported any violations and have assessed the process as democratic and transparent.

In Moscow, chairman of the local election commission Beslan Kobakhia confirmed that voting was proceeding in an orderly manner, with both international observers and representatives from the candidates' teams present to ensure transparency.

Security and Electoral Integrity

Acting Minister of Internal Affairs Robert Kiut assured that law enforcement agencies are ensuring a calm and orderly voting process. While minor incidents have been reported, they have been swiftly addressed, preventing any significant disruptions.

Polling stations will close at 20:00 local time, after which the vote count will begin. A candidate can only win the election if they receive more votes than both their opponent and the combined total of votes cast for the "Against All Candidates" option. The election will be considered valid if at least 25% of registered voters participate.

The winner of today’s election will serve a five-year term and assume office after taking the oath.

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