Opposition Group Nominates Kasyanov For President

Kasyanov at protest in Moscow in April (RFE/RL) MOSCOW, June 2, 2007 (RFE/RL) -- The Russian People's Democratic Union nominated former Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov to run as its candidate for the Russian presidency in next year's election, RFE/RL's Russian Service reported.

Kasyanov, who heads the opposition movement, told supporters the main points of his platform will include the abolition of compulsory military conscription, free education and health care for all and reforming the police.


Kasyanov has been highly critical of current President Vladimir Putin, who has promised to abide by the constitution and step down after two terms in office in 2008.