Press Release, 28.04.2025

Photo: A memo handed to the medical workers how to fill in an application form to become member of  United Russia and where to bring the application

Several employees of medical institutions in St.Petersburg have approached deputies from the Yabloko faction in the St.Petersburg Legislative Assembly. Medical workers reported being forced to submit applications to join the pro-government United Russia party. Yabloko has documentary evidence of this, including instructions sent to medical workers. In this regard, the faction leader Alexander Shishlov has addressed Vice Governor Konstantin Zvonik.

Alexander Shishlov notes that the law (Federal Law No. 95-FZ “On Political Parties” of 11.07.2001, Article 10, Paragraph 3) prohibits persons holding state or municipal positions, and persons in state or municipal service, from using the advantages of their official position in the interests of the political party of which they are members, or in the interests of any other political party.

According to Yabloko, organising admission to United Russia with the participation of executive branch employees not only grossly violates the law but also constitutes pressure on medical workers, violates their constitutional rights, and contradicts the Code of Professional Ethics for Doctors of the Russian Federation.

Alexander Shishlov asks the Vice Governor to conduct an investigation, holding those responsible for such unlawful actions accountable, and taking measures to prevent similar cases in the future.

Yabloko considers the use of medical workers for political purposes and in the interests of the ruling party completely unacceptable. We will insist on stopping these unlawful practices and punishing those responsible, and we are ready to defend the rights of medical workers who approach us.