In a significant development in Russian politics, Grigory Yavlinsky, the head of the federal political committee of the Yabloko party, has announced the commencement of a signature collection campaign for his candidacy in the upcoming Russian presidential elections. This move, reported by RIA Novosti, marks a pivotal moment in the political landscape of Russia.
Yavlinsky emphasized the unique approach of the campaign, stating, “We are collecting signatures, but to ensure that people are not afraid to sign, we are gathering them not just for peace and freedom, but for the nomination of our candidate”. This statement was made during the 22nd congress of the Yabloko party.
The target for the signature campaign remains unchanged at 10 million, which represents 10% of the electorate. Yavlinsky added, “This is just 10% of the voters, so that later no one can write about a mere 0.3%.” This requirement underscores the challenges faced by opposition candidates in garnering widespread support in Russia’s political system.
Yavlinsky’s political journey has been marked by a focus on forewarning the public about future developments. The party has clarified that the signature collection for Yavlinsky’s candidacy will continue for a few more weeks.
In early December, Yavlinsky proposed a method for reconciliation between Russians and Ukrainians, drawing parallels with the historical example of Alsace and Lorraine. Additionally, in October, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Yavlinsky held a meeting where they discussed the special military operation (SMO). The Kremlin, however, declined to comment on this meeting.
The Council of the Federation has officially scheduled the Russian presidential elections for March 17, 2024. Previously, Yavlinsky had spoken about a serious conversation with Putin regarding Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing complexities and tensions in the region.
This development signifies a crucial phase in Russian politics, as Yavlinsky’s campaign brings a new dimension to the presidential race, potentially influencing the political discourse and voter sentiment in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.
