Russian voters went to the polls to elect a new State Duma in a tightly managed electoral process characterized by a distinct lack of genuine competition and a foregone conclusion regarding the outcome. The vote takes place against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Ukraine and a continuing consolidation of power by President Vladimir Putin.
United Russia, the ruling party aligned with Putin, is projected to extend its 23-year hold on parliament. The political landscape features only a few nominal opposition parties that consistently align with the Kremlin on critical issues, while liberal anti-war groups have been excluded from the ballot.
The three-day voting period commenced on Friday, with final results anticipated following the closure of polling stations on Sunday.
The timing during an active war makes this even more controlling. There is simply no alternative path.
I remember when United Russia faced actual competition. Those days feel like a lifetime ago.
Does anyone actually believe these results anymore, or are we all just waiting for the next act?
It is staggering how quickly genuine opposition disappears. Democracy seems to be just a label now.
Another foregone conclusion, but with three days to vote, surely some creative counting will happen.