More Photos of Election Day

Waiting for the Train- Novy Afon

 

Spectators and Domino Players- Sukhum

Presidential Election

Today, Abkhazia held an election to replace Sergey Bagapsh, who died in office on May 29.  I went to several polling stations and saw observers of many nationalities.  It was reported that as many as 80 nations would be represented.  I spoke to representatives from France, Russia and several nations in the Asia-Pacific region.  They were all impressed with the degree of organization and voter participation.  There were no irregularities in their observations.  The polls just closed moments ago and results are expected by midnight local time.  

Abkhazia's citizens clearly enjoy their deomcratic rights and the nation is engaged, but calm.

Voters and Journalists at Polling Station- Sukhum

 

Traffic near polling station- Sukhum 

 

Voters, Electiion Observers and Election Officials- Novy Afon

Election Tomorrow In Abkhazia

Tomorrow sees the Republic of Abkhazia going to the polls in an election to replace President Sergey Bagpash who died unexpectedly May 29.  The three candidates are Vice President Aleksandr Ankvab, Prime Minister Sergey Shamba and former Vice President Raul Khajimba.  Several polls were done early in August, but the outcome seems far from certain. 

The border crossing with Russia was busy all week with buses of tourists from Krasnodar, Rostov, Stavropol and as far as Moscow keeping the lines long.  The border is now busy around the clock.  Along with tourists, many election observers were crossing the border from Russia.  The Republic of Abkhazia looks to see observers from as many as 80 nations.  People here expect a free and fair election.

This week in Abkhazia saw warm, but pleasant days and nights.  Daytime highs of about 25 were prevalent in coastal areas.  The election was on people's minds, being a common topic of conversation.  However, it was far from the only issue being discussed.  Fresh fruit is ripening and the stalls and markets are full of fresh peaches, grapes,watermelons and apples.

Photos- Sukhum

 

 Waikiki Clothing Store- Young Fashionista

 

Amra Cafe

 

National Bank of Abkhazia 

Sunset- Port of Sukhum

New Photos- Abkhaz Highway

 

Taken from the highway northwest of Gagra 

One of the many distinctive bus stops in Abkhazia

Railroad Station in Sukhum (service now available from Moscow)