Russian Opposition Movement To Hold Protest Rallies

MOSCOW -- The opposition Popular Democratic Union of former Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov plans to hold several protests across the country on June 16, RFE/RL's Russian Service reports.

Kasyanov adviser Yelena Dikun told RFE/RL that demonstrations under the slogan "Enough Crises At The People's Expense!" will be held in 40 Russian regions.

Dikun said the authorities have officially sanctioned the gatherings, although the Popular Democratic Union has not been officially registered by the Justice Ministry.

Kasyanov was dismissed as prime minister by then-President Vladimir Putin in 2004.

He was also barred by the Central Election Commission from running for president in 2008.