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Human rights council appeals to Putin for Ella Pamfilova as new ombudsman

Vladimir Lukin, currently holding the post, was appointed in January 2004 and reappointed in February 2009, his term in office expires on February 18 this year

Ella Pamfilova ITAR-TASS/Vladimir Rodionov [Archive]

Ella Pamfilova

© ITAR-TASS/Vladimir Rodionov [Archive]

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Russian human rights activists urge re-election of ombudsman Vladimir Lukin

MOSCOW, January 21. /ITAR-TASS/. Russia's presidential Council for the Development of Civil Society and Human Rights (CPCH) has appealed for head of state Vladimir Putin's nomination of Ella Pamfilova as a candidate for the post of human rights ombudsman, the organization's website reports.

The call for support recognizes Pamfilova's long and distinguished record of public service in Russia, reflected in the council's assessment of qualities fitting her for the role.

"Sincerity, faithfulness to one's cause, persistency in defense of human rights and freedoms as the highest value of a state, an irreproachable reputation and unquestionable respect enjoyed in the community of human rights activists, the gift of a negotiator and mediator in settlement of uneasy problems in relations between civil society and the authorities are an ombudsman's most important qualities," the accolade proclaims.

"We are convinced that Ella Pamfilova has all these qualities which will complement one another," the CPCH members said in an appeal signed by more than 40 members including its head, Mikhail Fedotov.

Under law, a candidate for the post may be nominated by the Russian president, the Federation Council upper house of parliament, Duma lower house deputies and deputy groups for appointment and dismissal by the Duma for no longer than two successive terms.

Vladimir Lukin, currently holding the post, was appointed in January 2004 and reappointed in February 2009. His term in office expires on February 18 this year.

On January 16, the Duma launched a nomination campaign. It will appoint a new ombudsman by March 18.

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