Bagapsh declared president of Abkhazia

The majority of members of the Abkhazian Central Election Commission (CEC) have signed a protocol declaring Sergey Bagapsh to be the winner in the election of the republican president. "Sergey Vasilievich Bagapsh, who won 43,336 votes (50.08%) is considered elected president of the Republic of Abkhazia," said Aleksandr Adleiba, a CEC member.

Just after the decision had been made, CEC Chairman Sergey Smyr sent in his resignation. In his interview with the Caucasian Knot correspondent, Mr Smyr said the decision was made by CEC members under pressure from Sergey Bagapsh's supporters. Commenting on his resignation from the post of CEC chairman, Mr Smyr said he did it because "the internal political situation in the republic has become complicated and he can't discharge his obligations in full."

"The decision to declare Sergey Bagapsh elected president of Abkhazia was made by the CEC under pressure. It's illegal and has no legal effect," Raul Khadzhimba believes. His supporters gathered at his election headquarters and directed their steps towards the Abkhazian parliament with slogans "Khadzhimba is our president" and "CEC decisions are illegal". They are intended to stay there until a legal decision is made.