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Russians in the Far East have begun voting in a three-day parliamentary election in which most critics have been barred from running following a historic crackdown on the opposition.
The polls, taking place after a few weeks of desultory campaigning but months of relentless official moves to shut down significant opposition, are unlikely to change the country’s political complexion.
With 14 parties fielding candidates for half of the Duma’s 450 seats that are chosen by party list, the election is set to be genuinely competitive.
Meanwhile, President Vladimir Putin, has urged Russians to vote, noting that the election of the new composition is undoubtedly the most important event in the life of the country.
