Muslims' belief in "sacred nature" of power boosted turnout at elections in Dagestan

Presidential elections in Dagestan were accompanied with religious rites. This proves the desire of some residents of the republic to achieve 'sacred unity' with the authorities, sociologist Denis Sokolov said.

As reported by the "Caucasian Knot", according to the CEC of Russia, by 6 pm Moscow time 72.04% of the electorate in Dagestan took part in the elections. In Chechnya, 78.11% of voters have  participated. Earlier, the Chechnya electoral commission predicted a turnout of 90%.

Today, Mufti of Dagestan Ahmad Haji Afandi Abdulaev prayed near the ballot box. His wife, Aina Gamzatova, had previously tried to register as a presidential candidate herself.

At the Friday sermon, the mufti called his supporters to vote for the candidate whom "Said Afandi al-Chirkawi has always voted for."

In the mountain villages of Dagestan, a Mavlid with religious hymns was held before voting (a meeting of Muslims before an important event, note of the "Caucasian Knot").

Akhmet Yarlykapov, a researcher of the Caucasus, noted that "the DUM of Dagestan is a structure loyal to the government, and it is important for it to ensure the participation of Muslims in elections."

The clergy and regional authorities work together to ensure high turnout in Dagestan and Chechnya, he added.