Putin Congratulates Aslan Bzhania on Winning So-called Presidential Elections

Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Aslan Bzhania on winning the so-called presidential elections held in Abkhazia, Russian media reports.

Opposition leader Aslan Bzhania is leading the so-called presidential elections in Georgia’s occupied region of Abkhazia, as he gained 56.85% of votes, while Adgur Ardzinba received 35,42% and Leonid Dziapshpa - 2,22%.

"The convincing victory in an election held in an environment of free choice is the result of your supreme authority among your compatriots," reads the congratulatory message.

In addition, the Russian President expressed readiness to "work together with Bzhania to strengthen the alliance between Russia and Abkhazia."

On March 22, the de facto presidential elections were held in occupied Abkhazia, following a court ruling which announced the previous “presidential elections” held in the occupied region on September 8, 2019, illegitimate and ruled to call for repeat “elections”.

By Ana Dumbadze 

Photo Source: Reuters