Ramzan Kadyrov's more popular than his father, but self-censorship affects people's responses
Ruslan Isayev, special to Prague Watchdog
CHECHNYA - One can now openly say that the Moscow-backed Chechen Premier Ramzan Kadyrov is far more popular than was his late father. This was primarily due to his energy along with Pres. Putin’s immense trust in him.
Despite the claims of many political commentators that Ramzan’s position became shaky, the 29-year-old politician walks confidently towards his goal, which is the presidency of Chechnya, the age limit of which is 30. Almost all of Grozny is covered by billboards with his image - some with him and his colleagues, some with his late father, and others with Putin. Local television programs focus on reporting the work of the prime minister, and only rarely does a brief shot of the Moscow-backed Chechen President Alu Alkhanov slip in, making it appear that it was aired accidentally.
It's hard to learn people's true opinions about Kadyrov because very few speak frankly to sociologists or, God forbid, to journalists. Self-censorship works. Even those who live outside Chechnya don't dare reproach the almighty Kadyrov. However, if one puts aside the doubts about people’s sincerity, the following picture emerges:
Аskhab Yunusov, 36, policeman, Grozny: “I like that Kadyrov constantly helps people. Almost every day he travels around the republic and helps those in need. And what he has done for Grozny in the past six months is really a miracle. If the rebuilding continues, in two years no one will recognize our capital. All this has happened thanks to Kadyrov, although his ill-wishers speak differently."
Ali Simbarigov, 48, cattleman, Mesker-Yurt: "A long time ago I realized that politics is not my cup of tea and that's why I socialize only with cattle. In the Naursky district I have 19 cows and 60 sheep. I have long been trying to get a state loan for my business, but in order to get it one needs to bribe officials. Ramzan knows that everyone takes bribes so he'd better punish them instead of pasting his face on billboards all over the country. He took on too much of a workload and I don't think he’ll be able to cope with it."
Alla Klimova, 40, Russian primary school teacher married to a Chechen, Grozny: "It's good that at least Kadyrov remembered us. When he gave out money at Easter, it was a big help especially for the Russian elderly women who don't have anyone. People even pray for him in church."
Lyoma Israilov, 48, truck driver, Chechen-Aul: "I have a good job at Mosstroi and it's not thanks to Kadyrov. I'm not interested in politics as it's easier to live without it. But I know that in my village young men are still being illegally arrested at night. Maybe they really are guilty of something, but they should be legally sentenced. First of all it's necessary to fight against abductions. And being a man of action, Ramzan should tackle it."
Zama Sulmurzayeva, 25, Chechen State University student, Kurchaloysky district: "I personally like what Kadyrov does. Many people my age are of the same opinion. Some things he does turn out to be silly, but he is the just like us, who’ve seen nothing but war. He is deeply concerned about our nation and takes care of it. He could go to another city, Moscow, for instance, where Putin would certainly help him. He pays a great deal of attention to students, to youth. Recently the rector of our university was replaced, though I don't exactly know why. We should help Ramzan. Two years ago my parents always worried when I left for Grozny to take courses at the university. Now they’re less nervous; thanks to Ramzan the situation has become calmer as checkpoints are gone."
Khamsabek Elayev, 26, Chechen State University graduate, Shali: "Ramzan Kadyrov cannot be credited for absolutely everything he does. Were it not for Putin's support, he would not achieve such results. Changes in Chechnya, particularly in Grozny, make me happy but I will never accept situations where Ramzan shouts at ministers who are the age of his father or even grandfather - it's against our tradition. On the other hand, our people have been weaned away from order and Ramzan knows it well. He also knows that ministers embezzle state funds and take bribes and so they should be treated accordingly."
Many people refuse to speak about how they feel about resistance for the same reason they refuse to sharply criticize Kadyrov. That topic is taboo.
Ruslan Isayev is Prague Watchdog's North Caucasus correspondent.(T/E)
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