Russia's Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case against a deputy from the Kursk region after she published a video critical of President Vladimir Putin online, the Slon online news website reported Friday.
On March 4, Deputy Olga Li posted an online video addressed to Putin in which she criticized the president's actions. In the video posted to YouTube, and subsequently shared on the Vkontakte social media site, Li said Putin's domestic and foreign policies have led to the “collapse of the Russian financial system and rule of law.”
A case was opened against Li under Article 282 of the Criminal Code on the grounds of inciting hatred or enmity.
According to the Investigative Committee, the material published by Li contains “allegations of serious crimes against prosecutors and judges.” The committee also said “disseminating information aimed at inciting hatred and hostility to all officials in the institutions of state power is criminal and harmful.”
The criminal case became public knowledge after a meeting of the Kursk regional Duma on March 24. At the meeting, Li was criticized for her opposition to Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
