In Abkhazia opposition demands government resignation

The Abkhazian oppositionists have demanded from the republic's president to dismiss the cabinet of ministers and form the government of people's trust. The Coordinating Council (CC) of oppositional political parties and public organizations offers to retain the right to nominate a candidate for the prime minister, who will then form the government alone. President Alexander Ankvab declared his readiness for the dialogue, but finds any ultimatums unacceptable.

On April 29, Ankvab met the members of the above CC, who announced their demands.

Raul Khadjimba, a member of the CC, described the situation in the republic as a crisis and handed over proposals of the measures to the President, which, according to the CC, should be taken to break the deadlock.

In particular, the opposition demands that the new prime minister should independently form the government; and then within a month should formulate a package of amendments to the Constitution on transferring a part of the president's powers to the parliament and the government. Should the CC's demands be ignored, the Council intends to initiate the nationwide rally demanding the president's resignation.

The opposition will wait for president's response until May 5 and is ready for a constructive dialogue, while its proposals are no ultimatum, the "Apsnypress" refers to Mr Khadjimba as saying.