Thousands of people have gared in Russia for admission of opposition politician Alexei Navalny to presidential elections. " I am very happy and proud to announce that I am here as a candidate for all of Russia, "said Navalny during one of rallies. "We are ready to win and we will win this election."

Navalny is main opponent of head of state Vladimir Putin. Because of a criminal record, authorities had not allowed him to vote for presidential elections next year – he may not run for office until 2028. Navalny denotes conviction as politically motivated. The Russian presidential elections will be held in March 2018.

Navalny had called himself to meetings in 20 cities on Saturday. On Twitter he wrote: "Show authorities that re are real people who want to determine ir own candidates!" It is "impossible not to allow us to vote".  His followers should jointly visit local offices of Electoral Commission and apply for admission to election. 500 people should come to each assembly, minimum number of supporters who must have a presidential candidate. Should he not be admitted, Navalny threatened to boycott election.

Putin's victory is probably

In Moscow more than 700 people came to call, in Russian Rostov-on-Don, according to Navalny campaign, more than 800 people, in Ekaterinburg in Urals more than 900 and in Novosibirsk in Siberia more than 700. While rallies of Navalny followers were quiet, police tried to resolve a simultaneous event of opposition Ilya Yashin in centre of Moscow. Yashin is chairman of a district council and called for a "holiday of free elections". According to Public Prosecutor's office, his rally was not registered.

Navalny candidacy would not have much chance of success. According to surveys, Vladimir Putin has a safe lead. Last, he led with 75 to 80 percent far ahead of his challengers. In December, Putin had announced not to apply for his party to some Russia, but as an independent candidate for a fourth term. He hoped for broad support from political parties as well as from Russian society, Putin said. On Saturday evening, Putin had spoken out for a responsible and capable opposition. But it should not fight against government, but must have a "clear plan for positive action," he said at a meeting of some Russia.

Date Of Update: 25 December 2017, 12:02