Nizhny Novgorod debates sweeping election reforms before 2010 vote

A controversial bill could reshape local democracy—just as the clock ticks toward March. Will delays or protests derail the plan?

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2025 November 22 . 7:59 PM

1 min read

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Nizhny Novgorod debates sweeping election reforms before 2010 vote

Nizhny Novgorod is preparing for major changes to its election system ahead of the 2010 municipal vote. Residents will soon decide between two options: directly electing the city’s head or choosing a representative body to make the selection. The process has already sparked debate, with calls to delay the elections and amend the city’s charter.

The push for reform began when the Legislative Assembly of the Nizhny Novgorod region approved a bill in its first reading. This proposal shifts municipal elections to the second Sunday in March of the year when terms expire. Meanwhile, Mayor Vadim Bulavinov signed a decree ordering public hearings on charter amendments, requiring them to take place within 14 days of official publication.

The proposed changes will now go through public hearings before any final decisions are made. If approved, the amendments will alter how the city’s head is chosen and push the elections to March 2010. The process remains under scrutiny, with ongoing debates over timing and electoral methods.