The municipal election in the Kursk region went ahead as planned despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Central Election Commission stated that the vote was not postponed at the request of the region’s residents. Polling stations were set up across 83 Russian regions, including Kursk, with high turnout being described as an “adequate response” to the actions of “bandits and rabble.” The election included three by-elections for the 8th State Duma, 19 elections for governors, 13 regional parliamentary elections, and numerous municipal elections.
Some regions held voting from September 6 to 8, with electronic voting being popular among about 3.5 million voters in 26 regions. Despite thousands of attacks on remote voting resources, the Central Election Commission stated that no significant complaints were recorded that could affect the results. However, independent media outlets reported violations at polling stations, including instances of offering money for votes, removing observers, and ballot stuffing. The State news broadcaster Rossiya 1 even aired footage of election officials visiting a veterans’ hospital in Kemerovo to record votes from patients wounded in the Ukraine conflict.
The highest turnout in the recent elections was seen in Bryansk (40%), Kursk (50%), Kemerovo (60%) regions, and the Republic of Bashkortostan (55%). Despite these numbers, concerns were raised about electronic voting. Some citizens expressed worries about the transparency of the process, with one Muscovite stating that electronic voting could be used to rig elections. Furthermore, many people hoped that the elections, even at the local level, could contribute to ending the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and bringing about peace.
Residents of Moscow were in the process of electing City Duma deputies during the recent elections. While some shared concerns about the transparency of electronic voting, others expressed broader concerns about safety and security, particularly regarding the use of drones. One woman recounted a tragic incident in Saratov where a drone strike resulted in a death, highlighting the fears around safety in different regions of Russia. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, some voters noted the stark contrast in the quality of life between regions, with one woman pointing out the stark difference between the peaceful atmosphere in Moscow compared to the tension near the border in Novocherkassk.
Overall, the recent municipal elections in Russia, including in the Kursk region, proceeded amid ongoing conflict and tensions. High turnout was reported in various regions, with electronic voting being popular among voters. However, concerns were raised about violations at polling stations, including attempts to influence votes and remove observers. Some citizens expressed doubts about the transparency of electronic voting and emphasized the importance of ensuring fair and free elections. Despite the challenges, aspirations for peace and safety were shared by many voters, reflecting the broader hopes for a resolution to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict through the electoral process.
