Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has called for nationwide protests in 46 cities against the government’s unpopular plan to raise the retirement age for the day of regional elections this fall.
Russian lawmakers are pushing through legislation to increase the pension age to 65 years for men and 63 years for women over the next decade. The move, explained as a much-needed reform to stimulate the economy, has been met with widespread public discontent and has cut sharply into the popularity of Russia’s leaders.
On Tuesday, Navalny suggested that Russians hold rallies against the pension reform on the day of regional elections this fall, arguing that pensions “should be the main topic of the election campaign.”
“On Sept. 9, you can go out and vote. But why not come by for a rally and take part in a march?” Navalny said in a video address.
Navalny also urged demonstrators to demand the government’s resignation over the unpopular legislation.
“The World Cup is over, and we acted as the nicest and kindest people on earth,” he said, referring to the first wave of protests held during the World Cup but outside of the 11 cities hosting the football championship.
“But now we demand our right to voice our opinion toward the law that will affect the lives of every one of us,” said Navalny.
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.
