Parliament Warns Against External Interference

SUKHUM / AQW'A — The Parliament of Abkhazia has expressed concern over the events of 5 November and the potential for further tension in the country’s socio-political environment.

In a statement released by the Parliamentary Press Service, deputies stressed:

‘We are convinced that any attempts at unlawful interference in the internal political processes of the Republic of Abkhazia are unacceptable.’

The statement notes that, in order to prevent external involvement in Abkhazia’s domestic affairs, Members of the People’s Assembly – Parliament of the Republic of Abkhazia – are considering tightening certain legal provisions within the current legislation.

Deputies also emphasised that the Parliament has always reacted promptly, within its powers, to developments that could destabilise public and political relations in the country.

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On 12 November, an expanded joint meeting of the Committees on Defence and National Security and on State-Legal Policy was held to examine the presence in Abkhazia of foreign citizens who may have been involved in the electoral process.

During the meeting, deputies heard reports from the Prosecutor General and the heads of all key law-enforcement agencies, drawing their attention to the need for a thorough and impartial procedural review of the events of 5 November to determine whether any violations of current legislation occurred.

The Parliament of Abkhazia called on citizens, as well as all political forces, organisations, and movements, to refrain from mutual accusations and to act in the interests of society and the state.