Record turnout in Russia's presidential election: Putin leaves closest rival far behind

In the capital Moscow, Chair of the Russian Central Election Commission Ella Pamfilova provided information regarding the preliminary results of the presidential election during a press conference.

Noting that the voter turnout was at a "record level" of 77.44 percent, Pamfilova stated that 87 million 113 thousand 127 people cast their votes.

Emphasizing that the elections were free and transparent, Pamfilova said, "We have shown ourselves that we are an independent people and that we are doing everything for the development of our country."

Stating that more than 99.7 percent of the ballot boxes have been opened, Pamfilova announced that the final results will be declared on March 21.

According to the Central Election Commission, 99.76 percent of the ballot boxes have been opened. Based on the commission's data, Vladimir Putin won the presidential election with 87.29 percent of the vote according to the preliminary results. Thus, 75 million 950 thousand 588 people voted for Putin.

Among the candidates, Nikolay Kharitonov from the Communist Party received 4.30 percent of the vote with 3 million 737 thousand 763 votes, Vladislav Davankov from the New People Party received 3.84 percent of the vote with 3 million 341 thousand 389 votes, and Leonid Slutsky from the Liberal Democratic Party received 3.21 percent of the vote with 2 million 792 thousand 545 votes.

The newly elected president will serve for 6 years. Putin, who emerged victorious from the ballot box according to the preliminary official election results, will take the oath of office after the final results are announced and will assume the presidency of Russia for the 5th time.

News Source: AA