SUKHUM, August 20 (Itar-Tass) — The planned debates on television between candidates for the Abkhazian presidency, that were to be held this Saturday, are cancelled after Sergei Shamba, one of the candidates, was slightly injured in a traffic accident.
The accident occurred at the site of Bzypta, the Gagra district. The candidate’s motorcade was on the way for a meeting with voters. Shamba was slightly injured and a guard was hurt in the accident. They received medical aid in a hospital in Gagra. There is no threat to their lives.
As Shamba cannot participate in the debates because of the injuries, his opponents Alexander Ankvab and Raul Khadzhimba in solidarity have also decided not to participate.
According to the Central Election Commission schedule, the past week was given to candidates for the position of vice president to address voters in live broadcasts on television. The debates on television were scheduled for this Saturday. One hour of air time will be provided for each presidential candidate beginning Monday. They will answer questions of reporters and television viewers.
The presidential elections will be held in Abkhazia on August 26.