A strange 'signature' decision in Russia: Putin's rival barred from running in election

12 PUNTO FOREIGN NEWS

While there is a requirement of 100,000 signatures for presidential candidacy in Russia, the maximum number of signatures that candidates can submit was set at 105,000.

Boris Nadezhdin, a member of the Duma known for his anti-war stance and whose popularity has recently increased in Russia, had submitted the maximum number of signatures allowed.

OBJECTION REJECTED

The Central Election Commission, in its meeting to decide on Nadezhdin's candidacy, deemed the signatures invalid and announced its decision without delay during the same meeting. 

Nadezhdin's request for additional time following the decision was also rejected.

Nadezhdin subsequently stated that he could appeal to the Supreme Court of Russia.

Before his candidacy was dropped due to the signatures being deemed invalid, Nadezhdin had organized his campaign through thousands of volunteers working on his behalf. The Russian politician was the only presidential candidate to openly oppose the ongoing war in Ukraine. 

FAMILY IS WORRIED

Nadezhdin gave an interview to CNN International last month, saying that 'his family is worried about his safety.'

The source of these concerns is cited as the intense pressure applied to the opposition in Russia. In recent years, many Russian dissidents have been imprisoned for criticizing Putin. 

Vladimir Putin is expected to be re-elected president in the elections to be held next month. 

In Western media, comments that the elections in Russia are a 'formality' frequently come to the fore. 

News Source: Suat Tekin