Islam Times - Russians go to polls on March 4 to elect new President

Islam Times - On March 4, Russians will go to the polls to elect a new President. 15 nominated candidates desire to run through the pre-election race, but only five got closer to the finish line.

The leader of the Liberal Democratic Party Vladimir Zhirinovsky is among the most skilled candidate. There are four election campaigns behind him.

Mikhail Prokhorov, the Russian billionaire, is the only political newcomer and the only challenger who is not a veteran party leader.

In the election, Prokhorov has personally given out mandates to the observers.

The Prokhorov’s election campaign team prefers the modern way of communications with their electorate such as social networks and other activities in the internet.

Mikhaill Prokhorov's Headquarters realize the program Supervision 2012 together with League of voters and the opposition party ‘Yabloko’ which was refused participation in election.

Mikhail Prokhorov, who is new to politics, has added freshness to the election, which become unique on variety of factors. For the first time the head of the state will be selected for a period of six years. Besides, the whole voting process will be broadcast in the Internet.

About 200,000 webcams will be installed in all 95,000 polling stations across Russia at an estimated cost of around $1bn.

This was the initiative of the Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, who is believed to be set for a victory in Sunday’s presidential election according to the latest voter survey.

The leader of Communist party Gennady Zuganov and the leader of the center-left Fair Russia party Sergey Mironov actively took part in TV debates during the pre-election campaign.

This Friday was the last day when the presidential statements are allowed to address their electorate from TV screens or call rallies.

Saturday is the so-called day of silence.