Pamfilova explained the removal of observers by filming and moving around polling stations.

The head of the Central Election Commission, Ella Pamfilova, stated that during the elections, courts removed 15 observers from polling stations, including six each from the Communist Party (KPRF) and Yabloko. She said the reasons included filming outside of commission-approved areas, moving freely around the polling station, conflicts, and “interference” in the work of commissions, reports Novaya Gazeta Europe.

Another 17 members of election commissions were suspended from their duties. According to Pamfilova, they also committed violations.