Russian elections watchdog Golos is to file a complaint against politicians who sent costumed cartoon characters into a kindergarten to campaign for them.
Nikolai Dyomkin and Mikhail Cherepanov from the ruling United Russia party sent the entertainers into Perm's Kindergarten No. 269 on Thursday, the Meduza news website reported.
The costumed cartoon characters, including Peppa Pig and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, put on a full program of activities and games for the future electorate, including making giant soap bubbles.
They also ensured that the children knew who to thank for their day of fun, calling Dyomkin and Cherepanov “wizards.”
“Who is clapping for Nikolai Dyomkin?” asked the entertainers in one video taken by parents, “Let's clap louder!”
Both Dyomkin and Cherepanov are standing in the United Russia primaries on May 22.
Nikolai Dyomkin has served as secretary for the Perm branch of United Russia since 2012, while Mikhail Cherepanov is currently a United Russia deputy in the Perm city government.
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.
