United Russia explains its candidate's defeat in Novosibirsk by host of problems
MOSCOW. April 7 (Interfax) - The United Russia party respects the choice made by residents of Novosibirsk, who cast their ballots for Communist candidate Anatoly Lokot in the local mayoral elections, and sees a host of reasons behind its candidate Vladimir Znatkov's defeat.
"The elections were open and competitive, and voters have made their choice," Secretary of the United Russia Party's General Council, Duma Deputy Speaker Sergei Neverov told reporters on Monday in remarks about Sunday's mayoral elections.
Concerning Znatkov, several factors had an impact on his performance in the elections: the participation of Vice Governor Andrei Ksyondzov and ex-vice governor Vladimir Anisimov, and the dismissal of the regional governor during the elections over a loss of confidence.
"Threats to abduct Znatkov's son caused Znatkov to suspend the campaign for several days in its most intensive period. An attempt was made to cancel his registration. All of these factors taken together did influence the outcome," Neverov said.
He said in comments on the Communist candidate's election victory that, "for the party which he represents this means a new level of responsibility and the necessity to support this victory with concrete work."
Reports said earlier that Communist candidate Anatoly Lokot won 43.5% of the vote in the mayor elections, and acting mayor Znatkov of the United Russia party had 39.57% of the vote.
