Experts assess differently reasons for political crisis in Abkhazia

Experts questioned by the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent have failed to come to a common conclusion about the causes and consequences of the revolution in Abkhazia. According to journalist Orkhan Djemal, the crisis was inspired by Russia. Political analyst Arkady Dubnov believes the Abkhazian events represent strictly internal affairs of the republic. Ivlian Khaindrava, a Georgian political analyst, notes that the preconditions for the crisis have developed long ago.

When speaking of the causes of the events in Abkhazia, Orkhan Djemal has associated them with the Russia's desire to put pressure on Georgia, since the latter intends to sign an association agreement with the EU. The expert believes that the additional reason might be the desire of the Russian leaders to replace Alexander Ankvab, who was resisting closer integration with Russia, with a politician, who would be more eager to conduct negotiations.

Political analyst Arkady Dubnov sees the cause for the unrest in Abkhazia in inter-clan conflicts arising out of control over the money coming from Russia. Meanwhile, the expert does not agree with the statement that the crisis in Sukhumi is a way to put pressure on Georgia.

"For different reasons, Alexander Ankvab was an undesired figure from the very beginning (five or six attempts on his life were committed at different times). However, open actions against him were by default postponed to the post-Olympic period," said Ivlian Khaindrava, Director of South-Caucasian Research Programmes of the National Institute of Georgia.

The Georgian political analyst has also suggested that the new government of Abkhazia will actively use the anti-Georgian propaganda.

See earlier reports: "Head of Presidential Administration and Secretary of Security Council resign in Abkhazia", "Alexander Ankvab hands seal of Abkhazian President over to Valery Bganba", "Alexander Ankvab denies reports about resignation of government, General Prosecutor and heads of districts of Abkhazia".