Russian Observers Barred from Abkhazia Elections

The Russian Central Election Commission did not receive accreditation to monitor the elections in the self-proclaimed Abkhazia. While the Russian representatives submitted the necessary documents, a response was never received, reports NewsBox.

The Central Election Commission of the self-proclaimed Republic of Abkhazia denied Russian observers accreditation for the early presidential elections scheduled for February 15.

According to representatives of the Russian Central Election Commission, the documents for accreditation were submitted in advance, with a final response expected by February 11. However, no official confirmation was received from the Russian side. As a result, the Central Election Commission of Russia decided not to send its observers to the voting.

The inability of Russian representatives to attend was announced only on the eve of the elections, when media began inquiring about the accreditation status.

Early presidential elections in Abkhazia are being held following the resignation of the previous head of state.