On November 15, opposition supporters stormed the parliament building in Sukhumi, demanding the termination of a controversial agreement.
According to Radio Liberty, the proposed deal with Russia sparked outrage among the opposition, which accused President Aslan Bzhania of exploiting his connections with Moscow for personal gain. Although the agreement has been withdrawn from consideration, the protesters remain steadfast, calling for the resignation of Bzhania, the Vice President, and the Prime Minister.
It is noted that this agreement provides preferential conditions for Russian developers in the separatist region, whose independence was recognized by Russia 16 years ago, but which Georgia considers its territory. The international community shares this view, not recognizing the autonomy of the separatist region.
Opposition leaders propose two scenarios: either the head of parliament temporarily leads the region, or Bzhania appoints a new acting president until elections are held.
During the storming of the parliament, security forces used tear gas. Local media report that seven people were injured, with one remaining under control. The opposition claims that their actions are not directed against Russia, but rather aim to end the abuse of power.
At the same time, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili accused Russia of attempting to annex Abkhazia and expressed support for the protesters. In response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that Moscow is not intervening and expects a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
"The confrontation is escalating, and there is a risk of it turning into bloodshed," notes "Nuzhnyaya Gazeta" in its Telegram channel.
Source: Georgian Service of Radio Liberty.