Journalist Alexander Saveliev* and activist David Kankiya* added to register of foreign agents

The Russian Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has justified the inclusion of Alexander Saveliev*, a journalist, and David Kankiya*, an activist, both from Krasnodar, by their participation in the creation of materials for foreign agents and spreading false information about authorities' decisions.

According to the MoJ, David Kankiya*, who is also the coordinator of the "Golos" (Vote)** movement in the Krasnodar Territory, and a journalist from Krasnodar, Alexander Saveliev*, are included in the list of foreign agents.

Kankiya* was spreading false information about the electoral system and decisions made by authorities; he also took part in creating foreign agents' messages, the MoJ has explained in its website, adding that David Kankiya now lives abroad.

According to the MoJ, Saveliev* also disseminated messages from foreign agents and false information about authorities' decisions. He spoke out against the special military operation (SMO) in Ukraine. The journalist also lives abroad.

Let us remind you that a case was opened against Saveliev* for his cooperation with an "undesirable organization." He has noted that he had never been a member of any foreign associations. His case is intended to intimidate the media of the Krasnodar Territory, the journalists' trade union stated on August 6, 2019.

David Kankiya* has been arrested multiple times. In particular, on February 9, 2018, he was detained while leaving his home. He linked the detention to the work of the "Golos"** to prepare observers for the presidential election.

*Included by the Russian Ministry of Justice (MoJ) into the register of foreign agents.

**On August 18, 2021, the "Golos" (Vote) all-Russian public movement in defence of voters' rights was included in the new register of unregistered public associations performing the functions of a foreign agent. The movement's website is blocked in Russia.