Pompous celebration of KBR's 100th anniversary sparks local residents' criticism

The authorities of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic (KBR) spend money on mass celebrations, although the problems with industry decline and bad roads have not been solved, local residents have noted.

On September 9-11, the KBR held events dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the republic's formation. In particular, concerts, exhibitions, folk festivals were held in Nalchik, the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent reports.

Having visited the celebratory agricultural and industrial exhibition, Vladimir Kudaev, a journalist, saw no reason for optimism, he told the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent. "Compared to what was exhibited some 30-40 years ago, this exhibition fails to give rise to good moods, because there are no large industrial enterprises left in the republic," Mr Kudaev has stated.

Ismail Sabanchiev, the head of the public organization "Council of Elders of the Balkar People", told the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent that he would not spend money on entertainment events. "I would spend it to repair Nalchik streets, those that remained unrepaired, or I'd better help those in need," Mr Sabanchiev has stressed.

Instagram* users have also reproached the authorities for large-scale celebrations. "They are unable even to solve the problems with schools and kindergartens, but are eager to fun – please enjoy yourself!" the user kha4idogova was indignant.

This article was originally published on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’ on September 3, 2022 at 03:49 pm MSK. To access the full text of the article, click here.