This Sunday South Ossetia is due to hold the second round of the presidential elections. Leonid Tibilov, who won 42.48% in the first round, and David Sanakoyev (24.58%) will compete for the presidential chair. Sergei Mikheev, the head of the Political Situation Center, tells ‘VK’ about the pre-election situation in Ossetia.
- Can you please comment on the political situation in South Ossetia?
I think the situation is stable. The current elections are being held calmly, unlike the elections in November. Of course rivalry between candidates is present, but I think it is legitimate in terms of a standard democratic election campaign. At least no incidents have been registered, and I hope they won’t take place. I have been an international observer there and visited various election commissions. I asked them whether pressure is applied by the government, whether foreign influence is exerted on them and illegal interference with commissions’ work takes place. People answered sincerely that there is not any interference. So as far as I know, the elections are taking place normally. I think the person who will be elected will be a legitimate president.
- And who is the main candidate?
It is difficult to say. Tibilov and Sanakoev are through to the second round. Tibilov has a wide margin. I think he has more chances for victory at the moment.
- What are your impressions from the visit?
The situation is not easy there. A lot is being done for reconstruction of the economy, but I think more could be done. Yes, they are working on it, but the work is not sufficient. I believe that the money invested since 1992-1993 could bring more effective results. I hope that a new president would change the model of working for more serious effect.
