Putin has approved the nomination of the Orenburg Oblast governor for a second term despite residents’ criticism over flooding, according to information published on the Kremlin’s website on May 29.
Denis Pasler met with Vladimir Putin on May 29, stating that he is ready to participate in the elections 'with the support of residents of Orenburg Oblast.' Putin wished him luck, adding that during the past years, the governor 'has achieved a lot' and 'is committed to work as actively as before.'
In April, 'Vedomosti' reported on the impending resignation of Denis Pasler, citing three sources. According to the newspaper, the state was seeking to replace the governor, partly due to the flooding situation in Orenburg Oblast. Pasler himself wished to resign and transition to business activities, 'Vedomosti' claimed.
The flood in Orenburg Oblast, which began on April 5, has become the biggest natural disaster in the region in the past 100 years, resulting in at least 7 casualties. Governor Pasler addressed shocked citizens by saying, "Don’t tell me that you have suffered the most here." He cited people who procured equipment to rescue fellow residents at their own expense as examples of 'real patriots.'
During the meeting, Pasler also demanded residents put away their phones. However, they refused out of fear that pro-government media might falsify the results of the meeting without video proof.