19:42, 15 January 2016

Ramzan Kadyrov spreads struggle with dissent beyond Chechnya

The entrance to Grozny. Photo by the user Vladimir Varfolomeev https://www.flickr.com

Konstantin Senchenko, an MP from Krasnoyarsk, has apologized to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov for harsh criticism. The MP has admitted that he has changed his opinion after the "men's talk" with a "well-known person". It is still unknown whether Konstantin Senchenko was subjected to pressure.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on January 12, Ramzan Kadyrov stated that in Russia, the non-systemic opposition should be treated "as enemies of the people and as traitors." On his Facebook page, Konstantin Senchenko wrote a post. In particular, he stated: "Ramzan, you are a disgrace of Russia. You have discredited all you can."

On January 14, the website of the "Grozny" TV Channel, well-known for its orientation to propaganda, made public an audio record presented as an apology to Ramzan Kadyrov. Today, however, the MP has denied the apology to Ramzan Kadyrov through the media.

Konstantin Senchenko has stated that his post was issued out of desperation because of the fact that "the economic situation did not promise any prospects." He has also admitted that he has changed his opinion after a conversation with a "well-known person".

"It was a men's talk. And as a results, we have agreed that in any case and under any controversies, we need to try to find a compromise and dialogue in the correct form and not to stoop to personal insults," said the MP.

Konstantin Senchenko has added that he has been "convinced of the authority of the Chechen leader" after "a conversation and dialogue with representatives of the Chechen people."

Full text of the article is available on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’.