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Medvedev not object in principle to returning “none of above” column in ballot

Such column in the ballot “can give certain benefit”, the prime minister said
Photo ITAR-TASS/Vitaly Ivanov
Photo ITAR-TASS/Vitaly Ivanov

SOCHI, September 28 (Itar-Tass) - Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has not objected in principle to returning a “none of the above” column in the ballot.

“I’ve thought about it. I don’t conceal: I’ve discussed this issue with my colleagues. My attitude is double, but I don’t object in principle,” Medvedev told Rossiya 24 Channel on Saturday.

Such column in the ballot “can give certain benefit”, the prime minister said.

However, he believes that if there are many parties it is senseless to introduce such column.

“Such column is rather useful because I can’t support any party and I don’t like anyone. And I want to express my will directly,” Medvedev said.

He noted that in this case an elector could not vote for any candidate, who opposed the existing power. “I believe that this right will correspond to democracy that is why this issue should be discussed,” Medvedev said, adding, “It seems to me we can return to this issue later.”