GENERAL SHAMANOV’S SUPPORTERS BLACKMAILED

A gubernatorial election campaign is in full swing in the Ulyanovsk Region. Vladimir Shamanov, who is referred to as the suppressor of Chechen separatists, comes out as one of the race’s favourites. Amid the campaign, leaflets have emerged to discourage Mr. Shamanov’ supporters. The leaflets say “If you want your home blown up, vote for the general.” Moreover, local media leaked an alleged message from Shamil Basayev threatening to declare war against the city of Ulyanovsk if its residents give their votes to General Shamanov. However, General Shamanov’s electoral team think the threats are patently the tricks of his main rival, the incumbent governor Mr. Goryachev. In the meantime, military counter-intelligence and the Fediral Security Service have started to ferret the sources of anti-Shamanov propaganda.