Abkhazia's acting leader has won the presidential election in the breakaway Georgian region, as per state media reports on Sunday. Acting President Badra Gunba secured nearly 55% of the vote in the election, surpassing opposition leader Adgur Ardzinba's approximately 42%. The balloting was held in the Russia-backed territory.
Abkhazia, a lush coastal region on the Black Sea with a population of around 240,000, seceded from Georgia in the early 1990s with Russian support. Despite being recognized by most countries as part of Georgia, the latest election was condemned by Georgia as a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Gunba, who has been Abkhazia's vice president since 2020, assumed office as the acting leader in November following protests that ousted his predecessor. He pledged to steer Abkhazia towards independence, freedom, and prosperity.
The region has faced challenges such as power outages due to low water levels at a crucial hydroelectric plant and widespread cryptocurrency mining, which demands substantial energy resources. Despite its reliance on Russia, some Abkhazians have expressed concerns about Moscow's increasing influence.
Russian President extended his congratulations to Gunba on his election victory, underscoring the enduring ties between Moscow and Abkhazia.