The Russian parliamentary elections are taking place as Vladimir Putin and the ruling 'United Russia' party are making every effort to maintain control over the political scene in the country. This election, known as 'managed democracy', once again demonstrates how power is concentrated in the hands of the Kremlin.
Election in the Shadow of War
This election is the first parliamentary election since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin is using this election to claim the support of the majority of Russians for Vladimir Putin and the war. Officials have announced that nearly two hundred war veterans are participating in this election, which serves as a tool for advancing political activities.
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Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, has clearly indicated that this election is of great importance to the Kremlin and that no unexpected events are anticipated. Meanwhile, critics consider this voting neither free nor fair. Many independent parties have been sidelined from the electoral scene due to political and security pressures.
Restrictions and Repression
The Yabloko party, which is recognized as the only anti-war party in Russia, has been removed from the election party list due to its anti-war demands. Grigory Grishin, the party's candidate, is deeply concerned that these repressions will affect the electoral process. He states, 'The police are executing a political order, which means setting boundaries that the authorities think elections should be held within.'
In this context, many Yabloko candidates have been pursued by the police due to their political activities. Meanwhile, Russian officials claim transparency and fairness in the elections. However, the reality is different, and many opposition politicians are either in exile or imprisoned.
In the Dmitrov region, local people are experiencing strong war sentiments. Olga, whose son-in-law is in the war, says, 'We feel it, but this election cannot affect what will happen.' Meanwhile, Polina is seeking to live in a peaceful country and desires an end to the war.
Given the current circumstances, the Russian parliamentary elections are clearly influenced by war and political repression. Vladimir Putin and the 'United Russia' party are using this opportunity to strengthen their legitimacy among the people, while many Russians are seeking peace and an end to the conflicts.
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