13 candidates to run for Chechen presidency

As for today, thirteen people have sent written applications saying that they intend to run for presidency in Chechnya. These candidates include the current head of the republic, Ahmad Kadyrov; retired colonel of the Interior Ministry troops, Zaindi Mavlatov; teacher of the Grozny University Avkhad Khachukayev; the former deputy prime minister of the Ichkeria, Husein Biibulatov; and Moscow businessman, a Chechen by birth, Husein Dzhabrailov, RIA Novosti was told on Monday in the republican election commission.

According to the commission spokeswoman, Selima Magomayeva, former chairman of the Supreme Soviet of Russia, Ruslan Khasbulatov, who more than once spoke about his intention to take part in the presidential elections in Chechnya which will take place on October 5, has not sent so far his documents to the election commission. Nor official documents have been received from Chechen Minister of the Press, Bislan Gantamirov who is believed to run for the post of the head of Chechnya as well.

The republican election commission and the commissions in the districts of Chechnya are working quietly, no threats have been received by their members, and no pressure has been brought to bear on them, said the commission spokeswoman.

The last day for receiving documents to be registered as a candidate for Chechen presidency is August 20. By that day, every contender must send to the election commission the signatures of two percent of the voters who support him.