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Putin in support of Pussy Riot?
Friday 3rd August 2012 | Osh
Pussy Riot were all over the news this week for their political protest in a cathedral in Moscow and subsequent arrest. Putin outlined his opinion on the incident on a trip to London stating “There is nothing good in this...I wouldn't really like to comment, but I think if the girls were, let's say, in Israel, and insulted something in Israel … it wouldn't be so easy for them to leave." However, the Russian president later goes on to say that the feminist punk band should not be “judged too severely...But the final decision rests with the courts – I hope the court will deliver a correct, well-founded ruling."
Some might argue that Putin is showing signs of leniency, however it’s likely that the leader is simply looking for an escape route to avoid “responsibility”as he “is clearly worried and traumatised by the international reaction, as it is out of his control” says Mark Feygin, a lawyer for Pussy Riot. The group could potentially end up with seven years in prison if found guilty of hooliganism.
Amidst all the drama, the band seem to have the support of artists Jarvis Cocker, Pete Townsend and Martha Wainwright on their side. A number of other musicians have also presented similar feelings in a letter to The Times claiming that “it is the role of the artist to make legitimate political protest and fight for freedom of speech”. Power to the people. I’m with the Pussy on this one. Are you?
Natasha Ennakhoui
BTW, this reminds me of something I once heard. Goes a little something like this...
