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Aslan BzhaniaThe current president of the partially recognized Republic of Abkhazia
Date of Birth: 06.04.1963
Country:  Azerbaijan |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Career and Politics in Abkhazia
- Presidency
- Domestic Challenges
- Personal Life
- Health Concerns
- Current Events
Early Life and Education
Aslan Bzhania was born in 1963 in the village of Tamysh, son of a Russian language teacher and a kindergarten director. At the age of 17, he graduated from the school where his father served as principal and his mother taught primary school. Bzhania initially enrolled in a polytechnic university in Kyrgyzstan before transferring to the Moscow Automobile and Road Institute.
Career and Politics in Abkhazia
After graduating, Bzhania worked as an engineer in the Smolensk region of Russia. He later returned to his hometown and became a Komsomol worker. In 1991, he completed KGB courses and spent nearly a decade in Abkhazia's state security agency.
During the 2014 political upheaval, Bzhania joined the opposition and ran unsuccessfully for president, coming second to Raul Khajimba.
Presidency
In 2020, Bzhania was elected President of Abkhazia with over 56% of the vote. His campaign emphasized strengthening ties with Russia and resolving ongoing border issues with Georgia.
Domestic Challenges
In 2021, the National-Patriotic Union of Abkhazia held a protest demanding President Bzhania's removal from office. The protest escalated into riots, leading to arrests and a criminal investigation.
Personal Life
Bzhania is married to Aelita, daughter of a former prosecutor and lawmaker. They have two adult children, Aelina and Maxim, who reside in Moscow.
Health Concerns
In 2019, Bzhania was hospitalized after an alleged poisoning attempt. He recovered but suffered respiratory and mobility issues. In 2020, he was again hospitalized with pneumonia.
Current Events
In 2022, President Bzhania recognized the independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics. He has also maintained close ties with Russia, meeting with government officials to discuss issues related to energy and foreign policy.
