Russian President Vladimir Putin's Reelection
Russian President Vladimir Putin wins a landslide reelection victory with 87% of the vote in an election criticized as neither free nor fair by government critics and the West. The election saw a record 77% voter turnout. Putin's opponents barely campaigned, antiwar candidates were banned, and there were concerns of vote rigging. Dissent was visible with election-related protests, including dumping dye into ballot boxes and setting fire to voting booths. The death of Putin's critic Alexey Navalny stirred resistance, with symbolic protests held at polling stations.
Key Points
- Record 77% voter turnout
- Opponents barely campaigned with no significant support
- Antiwar candidates were banned from the ballot
- Visible dissent through election-related protests
- Symbolic protests held at polling stations
Pros
- High voter turnout
- Strong support for Putin shown in election results
Cons
- Criticism of election as not free or fair
- Concerns of vote rigging and lack of opposition presence