Reacting to news that Grigory Yavlinsky, from the Russian Democratic Party "Yabloko" is unlikely to be allowed to register as a candidate for the Presidency, Guy Verhofstadt, President of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) made the following statement:

"By refusing to register Grigory Yavlinsky for the presidential election the Kremlin removes any glimmer of hope for an alternative vision for Russia.  The Presidential elections to be held on 4 March 2012 will be another step backwards for democracy in Russia."

"Russian people have demonstrated their disdain for the current regime and are demanding change.  New State Duma elections should be held after registration of all opposition political parties. The European Union should reassess EU policy on Russia with the prospect of Putin clinging to power until 2024."

"The President in waiting would be well advised to heed to people's demands. 

Mr. Putin ,be aware Spring is coming."

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