Elections in South Ossetia: slogans and the subelite factor

South Ossetia has gradually entered the pre-election period; there are 10 days left until the X hour. People are already discussing the candidates, their programs, and details of their biographies. The war of incriminating evidence has already begun, although at the debate everything is within the framework of a civilized dispute - no one is pouring dirt on each other from TV screens. So far, only a document has appeared online that was once signed by Leonid Tibilov with a Georgian with an unpronounceable surname when he was the head of the expert group on conflict resolution in 2000. The conflict has been resolved for three years now, but the old papers remain. A document appeared on a website controlled by the temporary government of the republic. I'm waiting for a response. By the way, about the debates. I looked at it in fits and starts, and what I saw didn’t impress me at all. In my understanding, the young candidate, David Sanakoev, had to rush and rush, talk about changes and his ability to implement them, speak confidently. But so far his rhetoric is incomprehensibly soft. Leonid Tibilov performs as expected from him. Dmitry Medoev is also within the normal range. In the coming days, Kochiev, who is so far represented at the debates (and quite well) by proxies, should join in. The debate is of enormous importance, because the majority of our population, in my opinion, has not yet made a choice.

The first billboards in Ossetian and Russian languages ​​also appeared in the city. I would like to focus on slogans, because they should briefly and succinctly reflect the essence of the candidates’ strategy. With Tibilov, as befits a man of his age, everything is solid and balanced - “Stable future.” Medoev adopted the words known to every passing Transkam - “Blossom, my Ossetia!”, The emphasis was on the transition from recognition of the state to its arrangement. Sanakoev says: “A young state has a young president.” All three billboards are located on the same spot, at the intersection of Moskovskaya and 8 June streets. What can I say: I lack color and richness. I heard Kochiev’s slogan – “Down with the gang!” This is what I understand, briefly and clearly) The Communist Party rules and rules in such matters.

The next 10 days will be full of surprises, some unpleasant. Much depends on whose side the republic's sub-elite groups will take. Consultations are currently underway, and closer to the day of silence (not earlier) the final bets will be made. The candidates still have time to win over the sub-elite, which, other things being equal, can tip the scales to one side or another. I think each of the four understands this perfectly well, and should work accordingly. We are a state in which every voice matters in the most literal sense, not to mention the opinions of groups. The next post will talk about candidates’ programs. I have already said that I am less interested in the personal factor than the systemic one. How we will live after the elections - that is the question. I think everyone understands one thing: it can no longer continue as it is now.