The public movement «Golos», which was engaged in protecting voters' rights and independent election observation, announced the cessation of its activities. The reason was the criminal case and the sentence of the organization's co-chair Grigory Melkonyants.
In May, Melkonyants was found guilty of «organizing the work of an undesirable organization» and sentenced to five years in prison.
In the movement's statement, it is noted that «election observation is not political activity, but a way to protect the constitutional order», but now continuing the work has become unsafe. Due to the sentence, not only the participants of the movement but also people who sought consultation are at risk of persecution.
According to the movement's message, all regional branches of «Golos» have been liquidated, and all projects and informational resources created by the movement have ceased operations. Subscription to regular donations in support of «Golos» has also been discontinued.
«This is the end of a story that, according to the investigation and court, lasted 25 years. Justice, alas, does not always prevail — you have to fight for it. And there is always a risk of losing. This time it turned out this way. Farewell», says the statement of «Golos».
* Recognized in Russia as an«foreign agent».