21 June 2004 08:54
Russian liberals considering merger with pro-Kremlin party - former MP
[Presenter] Serious changes may occur on Russia's domestic political scene. The SPS [Union of Right Forces]
party may become part of another political force - [pro-Kremlin party] One Russia. Darya Sakhnovskaya has the
details.
[Correspondent] Boris Nadezhdin [SPS member] has said that there is a possibility of SPS merging with One
Russia's right wing. During the annual conference of the Moscow Region branch of SPS, Nadezhdin said that this
merger could be facilitated by Kremlin spin doctors, particularly if order and stability are set in opposition to
fascism and nationalism. Nadezhdin believes that if this happens the issue of human rights will lose its urgency.
Nezavisimaya Gazeta [newspaper] today says that SPS currently has two possible development options. The first is
focusing on human rights and social issues. Nadezhdin said that this path would lead to fierce opposition to the Kremlin
but would allow a coalition with Yabloko [liberal political party]. The second is focusing on economic development.
Those SPS members who think that this is the right path to follow are inclined to support the government and
president's policies and are ready to merge with One Russia.
[Presenter] Nadezhdin also said that personally he has no doubts about the need for a coalition of democratic
forces.
[Ekho Moskvy radio] |
RUSSIA IN FACTS
