Dagestani analysts assess Melikov’s words in support of Kerimov

When speaking out in support of Suleiman Kerimov after the threats voiced by Ramzan Kadyrov, Sergey Melikov, the leader of Dagestan, has reduced the degree of the conflict, journalists believe. At the same time, Dagestani public figure Bulach Chankalaev reported criticism from officials because of his statement about the need to reconcile Suleiman Kerimov and Ramzan Kadyrov. Bulach Chankalaev, who resigned from his post as assistant to the Mayor of Makhachkala because of the criticism, suggests that only “top-ranking officials” can express their opinion on such a topic.

The “Caucasian Knot” has reported that on October 12, after the leader of Chechnya threatened blood feud against Suleiman Kerimov, Dagestani leader Sergey Melikov promised that the republic “would always support the senator in difficult times.” The Mayor of Derbent also spoke out in support of Suleiman Kerimov. At the same time, the Muftiate of Dagestan distanced itself from the conflict between Ramzan Kadyrov and Suleiman Kerimov.

Dagestani public figure Bulach Chankalaev reported in his Telegram channel that some officials from the administration of the leader and the government of Dagestan expressed their dissatisfaction with what he had said about the reconciliation between Ramzan Kadyrov and Suleiman Kerimov.

By supporting Suleiman Kerimov, the leader of Dagestan has allowed the degree of confrontation to be reduced, given that Suleiman Kerimov is supported by many Dagestani natives, notes Milrad Fatulaev, the editor-in-chief of the RIA “Derbent” news agency.

Milrad Fatulaev believes that Sergey Melikov’s public support for Suleiman Kerimov does not mean confrontation with Ramzan Kadyrov.

Another Dagestani journalist notes that the leader of Dagestan is equally close to both Suleiman Kerimov and Ramzan Kadyrov in terms of personal relationships.