Former bodyguard runs for president in South Ossetia

Candidates are beginning to emerge to challenge front-runner and Prime Minister Marat Kambolov in the presidential election in South Ossetia.

The opposition party Iry Farn (Grace of Ossetia) has nominated its leader, Khokh Chochiev, as its presidential candidate. He has also secured the backing of Irystony Nog Faltar (New Generation of Ossetia). His nomination documents are due to be submitted to the Central Election Commission in the coming days.

“I am convinced this is the right step. We made this decision after careful consideration. I promise to see it through to the end, without backing down. The rule of law is the main principle. If we live by the law, every other issue can be resolved. I will present the details of my programme at meetings with voters,” Chochiev said.

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All of Marat Kambolov’s potential rivals have stepped aside in his favour.

Little is currently known about Chochiev. His official biography has not yet been published. People in Tskhinvali describe him as “a good guy”, while sources told JAMnews that he had worked for several years as a bodyguard to Leonid Tibilov, the third president of South Ossetia.

The sources said they were unable to confirm whether Chochiev still has ties to Tibilov’s family or is backed by people from the former president’s circle, adding only that he “appears to be running independently”.

Chochiev has little political experience. He entered politics only recently, ahead of the 2024 parliamentary election. His party, Iry Sombon, was established specifically for that election, but its young activists failed to win any seats.

The current presidential campaign appears to be another attempt to raise his political profile and gain experience. He is widely seen as having little chance of defeating Marat Kambolov. His support is expected to come mainly from relatives, friends and voters who favour a locally based politician over Kambolov, who arrived from Russia only a few months ago.

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However, Chochiev is not the only local politician seeking the presidency. Two other politicians from Tskhinvali have also announced their intention to run: Giorgi Kabisov, leader of the Iron (Ossetian) party, and independent MP Oleg Kozayev. Neither has yet been officially registered as a candidate.

The snap presidential election is due to take place in September 2026.

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bodyguard runs for president in South Ossetia

bodyguard runs for president in South Ossetia