Kremlin-Favored Candidate Badra Gunba Faces Runoff in Abkhazia Election

In Abkhazia’s February 15 presidential election, Badra Gunba failed to secure a majority, prompting a runoff against Adgur Ardzinba. The Kremlin’s influence looms large, particularly due to Gunba’s backing and concerns regarding Russian economic policies. The runoff is set to take place by March 1, with significant implications for Abkhazia’s political future.

In the recent presidential election held on February 15 in Abkhazia, a breakaway region of Georgia with close ties to Russia, all candidates conveyed pro-Russian sentiments. Nevertheless, the Kremlin’s favored candidate, Badra Gunba, was unable to achieve an outright majority, necessitating a runoff against his challenger, Adgur Ardzinba, who criticized Russian economic policies. The Election Commission confirmed Gunba’s shortfall of 50 percent required for a first-round victory, thus a decisive second round is anticipated by March 1.

This election highlights significant political tensions within Abkhazia regarding Russian influence. Gunba’s inability to secure a majority indicates growing dissent against Moscow’s economic strategies. The runoff election is likely to test Abkhazia’s political landscape further and determine the extent of Russia’s control amidst international criticism of its actions in the region.

Original Source: www.rferl.org