Anti-Putin Lawmaker Kicked Out of Russian Parliament

Posted September 14th, 2012 at 10:50 am (UTC-5)
Leave a comment

The Russian parliament has expelled a lawmaker who participated in protests against President Vladimir Putin. He is accused of violating the ban on operating a business while serving as a lawmaker.

Gennady Gudkov said Friday's 291-150 vote to oust him was the result of political pressure, rather than justice. Three deputies abstained from the vote.

Gudkov will lose his political immunity and could be charged for his alleged actions.

Other lawmakers opposed to his ouster say it sets a dangerous precedent to force out lawmakers opposed to the president.

The move to expel Gudkov comes a day before a large anti-Putin rally scheduled in Moscow.