Putin penned articles this month in Izvestia, Nezavisimaya Gazeta and Vedomosti outlining his views on social policies, nationalist tendencies, and economic policy. Independent elections watchdog Golos said yesterday that Putin broke electoral law by publishing the articles, which it said were part of Putin's campaign platform.
By law, presidential candidates cannot start campaigning in the mass media until Feb. 4.
"The prime minister within the framework of his authorities is laying out his position on current and prospective issues," elections commission member Maia Grishina said Tuesday, RIA-Novosti reported.
The fact that information from the prime minister is appearing in various publications is correct, as it allows him to reach a greater audience and give an equal amount of attention to different media outlets, Grishina said.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
