Putin calls on voters to take part in September 18 polls

Russian President Vladimir Putin in a special message to the nation has called upon all voters to go and exercise their right to vote. Putin said that participation in the election was a "civic duty of each Russian" and a "manifestation of sincere feelings towards one’s country."

"It depends entirely upon you, Russian citizens, what a future parliament will be like. I am certain that all of us are interested in delegating to the State Duma only decent, competent, energetic and honest people capable of acting on the people’s will and rising to their expectations and ensuring stability, development and national accord, who are prepared to stay united in safeguarding the interests of Russia," Putin said. "I am urging you to come to the polling stations and to vote and express your position," TASS quoted him as saying.