Tensions Rise as Abkhazia’s Presidential Vote Concludes
Dmitry Marshan (right), Chairman of the Central Election Commission (CEC).
SUKHUM / AQW’A — Polls have closed in the second round of Abkhazia’s presidential election, with voting concluding at 20:00 local time. Electoral commissions have now begun counting the ballots, amid reports of armed violence, attempted electoral fraud, and political tensions.
The Central Election Commission (CEC) reported an overall turnout of approximately 70%, with around 100,000 voters casting their ballots both within Abkhazia and abroad.
The presidency is contested between Badra Gunba, who secured 46.38% of the vote in the first round, and Adgur Ardzinba, who received 36.92%.
To win in the second round, a candidate must receive more votes than both their opponent and the combined total of votes cast for the "Against All Candidates" option.
The most serious incident of the day occurred in Tsandrypsh, Gagra District, where a group of up to 20 armed and masked individuals attacked Polling Station No. 5 in District 14 at approximately 19:30.
According to the Prosecutor General's Office, the attackers threatened election officials and police officers, damaged the ballot box, and then fled the scene. Witnesses reported shots fired, ballots scattered, and some papers doused with water.
Law enforcement officers pursued the suspects, blocking the Myussera checkpoint. The attackers ignored orders to stop and opened fire, resulting in a shootout. One of the fleeing vehicles lost control and veered off the road. Authorities have launched an active search operation, with forensic teams working to identify and apprehend those involved.
Despite the attack, Central Election Commission (CEC) Chairman Dmitry Marshan stated that the situation in Tsandrypsh was brought under control, and all ballots were collected for counting. He also confirmed that no irregularities had been reported at Sukhum College, where the counting process is proceeding as planned.
Political Figures and Organisations Call for Calm
Amid rising tensions, presidential candidate Adgur Ardzinba urged the public to remain calm:
"We strongly condemn such actions and urge all our people not to be drawn into provocations. Our primary goal is to ensure a fully transparent election process so that the multiethnic people of Abkhazia can freely determine their future."
The veterans' organisation "Aruaa" also released a statement denouncing any attempts to interfere with the electoral process:
"Any attempt to prevent citizens from voting is a provocation, regardless of its origin. Stability and peace in Abkhazia are of the highest value. We call for calm and adherence to the laws of the Republic of Abkhazia."
Additionally, the Republican Political Party "Akzaara" condemned any form of pressure on the electoral process:
"We call on all citizens to remain calm, not to succumb to provocations, and to respect the law during this critical period for our country. Free and fair elections are the key to Abkhazia’s stability and future."
Similarly, the Republican Political Party "FNEA" highlighted ongoing concerns:
"Reports are emerging of attempts to interfere with the peaceful voting process. Independent media have recorded multiple election law violations. It is crucial to maintain stability in our country. We urge citizens not to respond to provocations."
With vote counting underway, the security situation remains tense following reports of violence, electoral fraud, and political instability. Authorities have yet to provide a formal response regarding the ongoing investigations into the attacks and violations.
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