Kathmandu— Russia's top court rejected an appeal by the opposition Yabloko party against a ruling preventing it from participating in upcoming elections, while simultaneously another court sentenced its deputy leader, Lev Shlosberg, to 11 years and one month in a penal colony. The decisions, announced on Monday, are seen by activists as further evidence of democratic backsliding and a crackdown on dissent related to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Yabloko was removed from the ballot after being accused of undermining the election process and receiving backing from Western countries, allegations the party denies. Shlosberg’s conviction stemmed from legislation criminalizing criticism of Russia's armed forces and spreading false information about the conflict.

Election Ban Upheld

The Appeals Chamber of the Supreme Court confirmed the decision to revoke Yabloko’s registration for the State Duma elections, a move that eliminates the only registered political party openly calling for an end to the Russia-Ukraine war from the September ballot. The party stated it would pursue a supervisory review of the ruling. The case was initially brought forth by Rodina, a pro-Kremlin nationalist party, which alleged Yabloko was supported by Western nations and aimed to destabilize both the election and Russia itself.

Deputy Leader Sentenced

Lev Shlosberg, Yabloko’s deputy leader, received an eleven-year sentence for allegedly harming the reputation of Russia’s armed forces and disseminating false information. The conviction is based on legislation enacted following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which carries harsh penalties – including lengthy prison terms – for those found guilty of “discrediting” the military or spreading misinformation about the war. Shlosberg delivered a defiant speech at his trial, describing the conflict as a catastrophe for Russia and predicting a future reckoning with its human cost.

Crackdown on Supporters

Police detained dozens of Yabloko supporters and journalists who gathered to hear the court’s decision, taking some into custody. Kirill Goncharov, head of Yabloko’s Moscow branch, reported numerous detentions and noted the heightened tension among police officers, as told to independent outlet Novaya Gazeta. Party leader Nikolay Rybakov characterized the detentions within the courtroom as an act of intimidation.

Yabloko intends to pursue further legal challenges despite the unfavorable rulings, while Shlosberg will begin serving his lengthy prison sentence. These actions continue a pattern of suppressing political opposition in Russia.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.