Rosenberg: Russia's elections will have few surprises, but for the Kremlin they matter
There is no doubt over the outcome of this vote, but for the Kremlin they are still an important moment.
Russia's power structure often described as "managed democracy" functioned smoothly in the recent elections, with the United Russia party maintaining control over parliament. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov assured there would be no surprises. The Duma's 450 deputies were elected this weekend, ahead of Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.
Critics argue the election was neither free nor fair. Kremlin spokesman Peskov dismissed such claims. The election was crucial for the Kremlin to demonstrate popular support for President Putin and the war, as well as promote soldiers' political careers. Despite some irregularities in the campaign, including empty lecterns and a candidate who sang instead of speaking, the Kremlin remained confident.
Communist Party leader Gennady Zyuganov noted 100% agreement in the Duma on supporting the war. However, opposition parties like Yabloko, advocating for a ceasefire, faced challenges, including being excluded from the party list and individual candidates being barred or detained by authorities. The Kremlin maintains the elections are transparent and fair, but critics point to opposition figures being forced into exile or imprisoned, and Golos election monitoring group being shut down.
In the war's aftermath, Russians grapple with inflation, fuel shortages, and ongoing concerns about drone attacks on their oil refineries.
Written by urgent.news from BBC World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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