The leader of Yabloko was accused of “disrespect for society” over spoiling ballots in elections

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A protocol for petty hooliganism was drawn up against Yabloko’s leader for voting against everyone. He faces up to 15 days of arrest. An administrative protocol under Part 1 of Article 20.1 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation (petty hooliganism) has been drawn up against Yabloko party chair Nikolai Rybakov, reported…

The leader of Yabloko was accused of “disrespect for society” over spoiling ballots in elections

A court in St. Petersburg today began hearing the case of Nikolai Rybakov, who is accused of “petty hooliganism” (Part 1 of Article 20.1 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation) for publicly spoiling four ballots during elections, the Telegram channel “Slovo zashchite” writes. The court hearing will continue on October 7.

The protocol states that Rybakov showed “disrespect for society” by damaging “state property in the form of a ballot.”

In court, he confirmed that he had written inscriptions on the ballots, but did not agree with the classification of his actions as hooliganism.

This corresponds to my civic position. I came to the precinct election commission and wrote on the ballots. Such a ballot is recognized as invalid, not spoiled. If the ballots had been spoiled, I would have had to approach the chair of the precinct election commission. The commission also believes that the ballot is not spoiled. I showed no disrespect for society. I respect it very much. I had no intent to violate public order, I did not use obscene language, I did not humiliate or insult anyone with my words. I expressed my civic position,

Rybakov said in court.

He also noted that he had no hooligan motives and asked the court not to hold him liable.

Lawyer Leila Abdulaeva asked for the case to be dropped due to the absence of elements of an offense. The defense also asked the court, if it decided to impose punishment, not to arrest Rybakov.

🔵This article provides for a fine of up to 1,000 rubles or administrative arrest for up to 15 days.

🔵During voting on September 20, Rybakov wrote “Yabloko. For peace,” “Yabloko. For a ceasefire agreement” on the ballot and put check marks next to the surnames of all candidates.

Photo: “Slovo zashchite” / Telegram

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