Gennady Zyuganov, leader of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation (CPRF), has expressed concerns over the recent State Duma elections, likening them to a regression to the “tumultuous 1990s”. In a candid interview, he highlighted the necessity for unity and accountability in a country engaged in war.
“We fully understood that elections during wartime represent a fundamentally different event, requiring maximum cohesion and personal responsibility. The people are demanding a return to new policies that curb skyrocketing prices and alleviate burdens from public utilities,” Zyuganov stated.
He pointed to Russia’s economic and technological lag, noting, “We haven’t produced a single phone in 20 years”. Zyuganov criticized oligarchs for only enriching themselves and failing to contribute adequately through taxes and investments.
“If the current course of this exhausting war continues, everyone will lose. Without a left-center pivot towards justice, friendship, and socialism, this victory cannot be sustained,” he asserted.
Moreover, Zyuganov insinuated that the elections were marred by fraud, stating, “Unfortunately, the trends observed during the election campaign hark back to the turbulent 1990s. Such occurrences must be categorically rejected.” He disclosed that pre-election polls indicated the CPRF could garner between 18% and 30% of the vote, yet mentioned, “In certain regions, such as Voronezh, all observers were unlawfully removed.”
Zyuganov has previously referred to the invasion of Ukraine as a war, diverging from the official term “special operation”. However, he has not advocated for an end to the conflict; instead, he calls for greater societal cohesion and increased contribution towards a “victory”.
Context
- The State Duma elections took place from September 18 to 20. The Central Election Commission reported voter turnout exceeded 56%, though experts estimate the actual figure is around 40%. “United Russia” achieved the largest faction in the Duma’s history.
- Voting was also conducted in temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, prompting a strong protest from Ukraine, with its parliament urging the international community to recognize the illegality of the process.
