International

Shooting in Abkhazia Parliament leaves deputy dead, another injured

A shooting occurred in the Parliament of Abkhazia, a pro-Russian separatist region of Georgia, leaving one local deputy dead and another injured, AlJazeera reports.

Due to fatal injuries, Deputy Vahtang Golandzia died, while Deputy Kan Kvarcia suffered an arm injury, as reported by the press office of the region’s interim president.

The shooting took place within the Parliament building. The Ministry of Internal Affairs identified another deputy, Adgur Harazia, as the suspect and stated he fled the scene. The motive for the incident remains unknown.

Abkhazia entered a crisis last month when protesters stormed Parliament in opposition to an investment agreement with Russia, leading to the resignation of the region’s president, Aslan Bzhania. Vice President Badra Gunba became interim leader.

Deputies voted against ratifying the agreement with Russia earlier this month. Opposition leaders in Abkhazia opposed the agreement, citing concerns that it would enable wealthy Russians to buy properties in the region, pushing out locals.

Moscow, which provides substantial financial support to Abkhazia’s budget, aims to grant Russian investors property rights and development privileges in the region.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

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