The rise of New People, a political party once created as a Kremlin-sanctioned outlet for protest votes, has become a fascinating phenomenon in Russian politics. With a 13.4% support rate, it has now become the second most popular party in official polling, a significant jump from its 6.6% a year ago. This surge in popularity is particularly intriguing given the current political landscape and the ongoing war in Ukraine. What makes this story even more compelling is the role of internet restrictions and the Kremlin's strategic maneuvers. Here's a deeper dive into this intriguing development.
The Internet Restrictions Catalyst
Russian authorities' systematic restrictions on digital platforms after the invasion have played a pivotal role in New People's rise. The blocking of Facebook and Instagram, the throttling of YouTube, and the near-inaccessibility of WhatsApp and Telegram have created a void that New People has swiftly filled. Telegram, in particular, has been a lifeline for many Russians, serving as a primary news source, a workplace tool, and an advertising platform. The March internet shutdown in Moscow further fueled public frustration, providing an opening for New People to capitalize on.
New People's Strategic Maneuvers
New People's deputy Duma speaker, Vladislav Davankov, launched a petition against Telegram restrictions, gathering over a million signatures. The party's congress prominently featured the word 'VPN,' symbolizing its stance against internet control and censorship. This strategic move has resonated with a population seeking a safe outlet for their dissatisfaction.
A Controlled Opposition
The party's rise can be seen as a sign of growing anti-system sentiment, as Abbas Gallyamov, a political analyst, suggests. However, it's also a testament to the Kremlin's ability to channel protest-minded voters into a controllable framework. New People's founder, Alexei Nechaev, an entrepreneur with a neutral to supportive stance towards Putin, has denied any Kremlin connection. Yet, the party's actions and policies often align with the ruling party's decisions, raising questions about its true autonomy.
Navigating the Political Landscape
New People's parliamentary record is marked by a cautious approach, often voting alongside United Russia on measures they later criticize in public. This strategic navigation of the political landscape has likely contributed to its growing popularity. The party's nominal liberalism has limits, as it has also called for Telegram to open a Russian office, which would require user data to be accessible to Russian security services.
The Kremlin's Response and Future Implications
As New People continues to build its campaign ahead of the September parliamentary elections, the Kremlin is already discussing strategies to reduce its support. The party's potential to finish second nationally could challenge the Kremlin's carefully managed boundaries. Whether Putin personally heads United Russia's electoral list will determine the party's fate. If not, economic problems could further boost New People's support, leading to a potential Kremlin-backed coalition between the two parties.
In conclusion, the rise of New People is a complex interplay of internet restrictions, public frustration, and the Kremlin's strategic maneuvers. As the party continues to navigate the political landscape, its future actions and the Kremlin's response will shape the trajectory of Russian politics, leaving us with a fascinating story to unfold.
