Yekaterina Duntsova, a former Russian TV journalist aspiring to contest as an independent candidate in the upcoming Russian presidential elections, faces disqualification. The Central Electoral Commission of Russia declined Duntsova’s candidacy application, submitted on December 20, citing discrepancies in her documents as per local media accounts.
Ella Pamfilova, the head of the commission, confirmed the unanimous decision against Duntsova’s participation in the anticipated March 17 elections, where President Vladimir Putin is poised for a secure victory. Duntsova’s proposed agenda highlighted efforts to halt the Ukraine conflict and release political detainees.
This move amplifies critics’ claims that opposition voices face suppression, especially in the backdrop of Russia’s activities in Ukraine. The Kremlin remains confident in Putin’s overwhelming public backing, evident from his impressive 80% approval ratings. Consequently, Duntsova cannot advance to the subsequent phase of amassing supporters’ signatures.
Offering encouragement, Pamfilova told Duntsova, “You’re young with a future ahead.” Duntsova, aged 40, sought to challenge the 71-year-old Putin, poised for a fifth presidential term, potentially prolonging Russia’s involvement in Ukraine. Putin’s political journey spans 24 years, inclusive of an eight-year prime ministerial tenure.
Responding to queries about her candidacy’s fate against Putin, Duntsova emphasized her rights under the law rather than seeking permission. Notably, Putin’s electoral journey remains largely unchallenged, given the incarceration of key opposition figures like Alexey Navalny and the exile of prominent Kremlin critics fearing arrest.
Pamfilova disclosed that a total of 29 individuals have registered for the presidential race. In a recent interview with Reuters, Duntsova advocated for the release of political figures like Navalny while cautiously navigating the terminology surrounding the Russia-Ukraine situation, which Putin dubs a “special military operation,” emphasizing the prevailing atmosphere of apprehension but asserting, “Fear should not prevail.”
