Russian Polling Stations See Sudden Increase in Lines as Navalny Supporters Protest Election

As the clock struck noon on Sunday, the Russian Presidential election witnessed an unexpected surge in voter turnout at polling stations across the country. Supporters of the late opposition leader Alexey Navalny had called for a protest at this hour, leading to an increase in the number of voters queuing up to cast their ballots.

Long Lines and Increased Security Measures

At a polling station in Moscow, a CNN team reported a sudden increase in the queue, estimating that around 150 people had arrived within a span of five to ten minutes. The police were seen allowing people in batches, subjecting them to thorough security checks using metal detectors and bag inspections inside the building.

One 39-year-old voter expressed his reason for arriving at noon, stating, "to see other people, and they have come too." Another voter, a woman, mentioned that it was her first time witnessing a queue for elections and cryptically remarked, "You know why. I think everybody in this queue knows why."

Widespread Impact

While the exact scale of increased turnout at noon remains unclear, reports emerged from various locations, including St. Petersburg and Moscow neighborhoods such as Nekrasovka and Tservkaya Street. Social media channels established by Navalny's supporters shared video clips of long lines, while an image from the city of Novosibirsk was posted with the caption. 

Call for Protest Action

Earlier in the month, Yulia Navalny, the widow of Alexey Navalny, called for "an all-Russian protest action," emphasizing its significance due to Alexey's call for participation against Putin. Speaking on YouTube, Navalnaya highlighted that the protests were set to occur not only in every city but also in every district, aiming to engage millions of Russians.

Challenges and Expected Outcome

The election process has witnessed instances of civil disobedience, with at least 15 criminal cases filed in response to various illicit activities. Despite this, the voting is expected to lead to President Vladimir Putin's anticipated fifth term in office. His almost certain reelection would extend his rule until at least 2030, with the potential to remain in power until 2036, solidifying his position as Russia’s longest-serving ruler since Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin.

With voting taking place across the country's 11 time zones, including regions near Alaska and the exclave of Kaliningrad, the election carries significant implications for the future leadership of Russia.