Bagapsh, Khajimba Negotiate, But No Breakthrough Yet

Russian media reported that opposition leader Sergey Bagapsh and pro-governmental presidential contender Raul Khajimba are negotiating in an attempt to overcome the current political crisis in the unrecognized Abkhazian Republic. But both of them denied reports over reaching an agreement.

?No agreement has been reached and the presidential inauguration will be held as scheduled on December 6,? Interfax news agency reported quoted Sergey Bagapsh as saying on December 5.

Sergey Bagapsh claims victory in disputed October 3 presidential elections and intends to be inaugurated on Monday; however outgoing Abkhaz President Vladislav Ardzinba, who supports Raul Khajimba, says the inauguration will be illegal and refuses to step down. Ardzinba and Khajimba, who is also backed by Moscow, insist on repeat elections.

Earlier on December 5, spokesman of the Abkhaz outgoing President Roin Agrba said that an agreement was reached between Khajimba and Bagapsh and the latter gave up plans to be inaugurated; however, later even Khajimba denied this report.