The recent rally in support of Navalny has inflamed the situation in the country. Navalnist supporters stood for “freedom of rights and speech”, for the overthrow of the current authorities and the triumph of justice. As a result of these events, we decided to interview a couple of experts and get their opinion on a number of questions on the topic. One of the guests was a first-year student of International Journalism at MGIMO University.
The Kremlin. – Hello. Here we recall the recent incident with Navalny and his opposition campaign. Tell me, what do you think about the accusations made by Navalny in the course of his latest investigation, presented by the film “Palace for Putin”?
The MGIMO student. – There are different opinions about the investigation of Alexei Navalny and about the “biggest bribe”. First of all, because of the huge response that was caused not only by the video itself, but also by the public accusation of “embezzlement” brought against the president by the opposition leader. We need strong enough evidence to convince the people of what almost no one guessed. On the other hand, no one knows where the information comes to Navalny (obviously, from some domestic source), and this also needs to be taken into account. The truth, it seems to me, is known only to a limited circle of people, and it is unlikely that it will ever come out in full. Conclusion: it is difficult to deny the facts that Navalny has presented to us, but we should not believe that they are presented to society in a guise that fully corresponds to the truth.
The Kremlin. – You really expressed a tolerant position. Then I wonder what you would say about the unauthorized rallies on the territory of Russia and foreign countries?
The MGIMO student. – As for me, it is not necessary in this interview to link the rallies of our and foreign countries. I will comment on the situation in Russia. First, even before the protests began, I had a strong feeling that the rallies would not be as numerous as one might expect. Secondly, such events have never been characterized by a peaceful mood, which is natural — people are tired: they are angry, outraged, and the desire to restore justice usually sweeps everything else in the way. Nevertheless, it is almost impossible to solve problems in our country in a different way, as it turns out (year after year, century after century).
The Kremlin. – I quite agree with you. I would also like to know how you would comment on the prospects of the oppositionists of the current government?
The MGIMO student. – I have mixed feelings about the opposition movement in Russia. It seems to be there, and it seems not to be there. On the one hand, people are against the dictatorship, against “class inequality” (does it remind you of anything?), which is natural and, moreover, correct. But on the other hand, the phrase “criticize-suggest” (rather inappropriate in this context) pops up in my head — the Russian opposition really does not have a further (clearly defined) plan of action. It is impossible to put up with the situation in which the country is located, but I cannot count myself among those who are unconditionally on the side of the current opposition movement.
