The 1917 February Revolution saw the demise of the Russian Empire and the establishment of a provisional government in Russia. The Viceroy of the Caucasus, Grand Duke Nicholas, initially expressed his support for the new government, yet he was forced to resign his post. The provisional government created a new temporary authority, the Special Transcaucasian Committee (known by its Russian acroynm, Ozakom on ; composed of Caucasian representatives to the Duma (Russian legislature) and other local leaders, it was meant to serve as a "collective viceroyalty", and had representatives from the various ethnic groups of the region. Much like in Petrograd, a dual power system was established, with the Ozakom competing with soviets (councils). With little support from the government in Petrograd, the Ozakom had trouble establishing its authority over the soviets, most prominently the Tiflis Soviet.