03 Sep 2019 | 07:33 AM UTC
Georgia: Runoff elections in Abkhazia set for September 8
Runoff elections in Abkhazia set for September 8; heightened tensions and political protests likely over coming weeks
Event
The Georgian breakaway region of Abkhazia will hold runoff presidential elections on Sunday, September 8. The election will see current President Raul Khajimba and leader of the opposition party Amstkhara, Alkhas Kvitsiniya vie for the presidency.
A heightened security presence as well as associated political protests are likely leading up to, during, and following the elections.
Context
The first round of the presidential elections in Abkhazia took place on August 26; Raul Khajimba secured 24.83 percent of the vote, while Alkhas Kvitsiniya has gained 21.91 per cent. Elections were originally to be held in July, but after the opposition protested in front of the People's Assembly of Abkhazia building on Monday, May 20, authorities agreed to postpone the elections to August.
Advice
Individuals in Abkhazia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, anticipate associated political protests leading up to elections and heightened security measures, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and home governments.
