Abkhazia’s Initiative Group Pushes for Constitutional Reforms
'A Time to Rebuild...' 'Abkhazian Society and Political Elite Must Pause Before Rushing Into Elections...'
A group of prominent Abkhazian citizens and political figures have issued a bold manifesto, calling for urgent constitutional reforms to address the nation’s ongoing political and socio-economic challenges. The document highlights the persistent political crises that have fractured Abkhazian society over the past two decades, weakened the state’s foundations, and created obstacles to sustainable development.
The signatories argue that the 1994 Constitution (Adopted by the Supreme Council on 26 November 1994, and approved with amendments by a national referendum on 3 October 1999), while instrumental during its time, no longer meets the demands of modern Abkhazia and requires immediate amendments. They propose a series of transformative reforms aimed at strengthening democratic accountability, redistributing power among government branches, and ensuring greater fairness and justice in governance.
The full statement reads:
MANIFESTO FOR REFORMS
For the past two decades, the people of Abkhazia have lived under conditions of political confrontation that have eroded the legal, economic, and social foundations of our state.
A perpetual political crisis, fracturing Abkhazian society, has affected all aspects of life, devalued the ethical and moral principles of our people, weakened the nation against internal and external threats, and created significant barriers to socio-economic development. One of the primary causes of this crisis is the state’s political system, which grants unchecked powers to the elected president and their supporters while depriving the rest of the population of the right to equitable distribution of benefits.
The 1994 Constitution of the Republic of Abkhazia was adopted during a challenging period for the country and helped us navigate those difficult times with dignity. However, the realities have changed. Our Basic Law no longer meets the challenges facing modern Abkhazia and requires urgent amendments.
Adgur Ardzinba: "Our Government Never Used to Hide Behind Fences"
Adgur Ardzinba, the head of the 'Abkhazian People's Movement' and a prominent leader among Abkhazia's opposition political groups, recently gave an in-depth interview to the Russian publication Vedomosti.
In the interview, Ardzinba reflects on the dramatic political changes in Abkhazia, stating, “Our government has never hidden behind fences. This is against the traditions of the Abkhazian people.” He strongly criticises the anti-people policies of former President Aslan Bzhania, emphasising, “What happened was entirely an internal political matter, rooted in Bzhania’s leadership failures, not anti-Russian sentiment.”
Ardzinba also addresses prospects for reconciliation with Tbilisi, making it clear that “Any steps towards normalisation must begin with recognising the historical and factual reality of Abkhazia’s independence.”
The interview, which explores the current political landscape, relations with Moscow, and ideas for governance reform, has been translated by AbkhazWorld for its readers.
Liana Kvarchelia: A Time to Rebuild
“It is vital not just to change people but to change the rules of the game
Now, after the long-awaited resignation of the president, the priority must be reform. Certain steps need to be taken before the elections, which means the elections should be postponed. During this period, a new electoral law must be adopted, along with a package of amendments and laws aimed at redistributing powers.
Various proposals on this matter already exist, and some concepts have been developed. It is essential to bring together the best legal experts, representatives of political parties, academics, members of civil society organisations, and journalists to discuss these issues and select the most effective model for governance under our current circumstances.
Administrative reform is also crucial. The bureaucratic apparatus has become disastrously bloated, with enormous sums spent not only on its maintenance but also on obvious excesses. Only after addressing this issue can elections be held.
It is vital not just to change people but to change the rules of the game. Otherwise, we risk a sense of déjà vu, if the state even survives at all.”
Liana Kvarchelia, Public Activist
19 November 2024
Leuan Lagulaa: 'Abkhazian Society and Political Elite Must Pause Before Rushing Into Elections'
“The Abkhazian society and political elite should take a step back and not rush to schedule elections. It is essential to develop and adopt several key laws and doctrines:
1. Limit Presidential Powers
2. Introduce Radical Changes to Electoral Legislation
3. Draft New Doctrines on National Security and International Relations
These measures would help prevent further societal escalation and make the country more resilient to external influences.
If the elite once again rushes into a battle for resources, it will be a historical mistake, one no less, and perhaps even more significant, than the ratification of the investment agreement.
The eight hour long negotiations between the authorities and the opposition demonstrated that we are capable of reaching agreements independently for the benefit of the people. This process must be expanded and continued. It is crucial to use all the resources available within society and finally set aside the obsession with positions of power.
Claims that the constitution requires elections to be held within three months, in my view, are unfounded. Postponing them for another two to three months would not cause any harm.”
Leuan Lagulaa,
Editor in Chief of ApsnyHabar
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Diaspora Unites for Abkhazia: A Call for Dialogue and Reform
ISTANBUL / TÜRKİYE — The escalating tensions in Abkhazia have echoed across its global diaspora, prompting a strong response from the Circassian and Abkhazian communities in Türkiye. Representatives of a group named in Turkish Anavatan İçin Diaspora Ayakta (The Diaspora Stands Up for the Motherland) has issued a statement expressing deep concern over the ongoing crisis and proposing a way forward.
The statement, shared in four languages, Turkish, English, Abkhaz, and Russian, calls for democratic reforms, inclusive dialogue, and the formation of a transitional Government of National Accord to address the current challenges and safeguard the nation's sovereignty.
The full statement reads:
The Diaspora Stands with Abkhazia!
The recent escalation of tensions in Abkhazia and the subsequent events have caused deep concern and sorrow among the Circassian and Abkhazian diasporas from the North Caucasus and Abkhazia living in Türkiye. Organisations representing the majority of our community, as well as many individuals, have expressed their worries, criticisms, and recommendations, urging all parties to exercise restraint and seek a peaceful, democratic resolution.
As a nation grappling with depopulation in its homeland, we cannot afford division. At a time when every inch of land holds immense value, we underscore the importance of Abkhazia, with its rich natural resources and unparalleled beauty, and call on everyone to act with the sovereignty and future of the nation at heart.
We believe it is critical to hold democratic elections as soon as possible under the leadership of an interim Government of National Accord, ensuring that third parties are prevented from interfering in Abkhazia’s internal affairs.
Furthermore, we strongly advocate for a democratic dialogue process that includes all parties and aims to address the root causes of the current tensions. Such a process must ultimately lead to lasting solutions, including comprehensive constitutional reforms.
With these convictions, we, the undersigned members of the Circassian and Abkhazian diasporas of the North Caucasus and Abkhazia, call on all sides to exercise restraint. We affirm our unity with our brothers and sisters, those who have always stood by the Motherland, Abkhazia, and its ancient culture through all challenges.
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