Russian Parliament Passes Bill Barring Navalny Associates from Running in Elections

Russia's upper house of parliament, the Federation Council, has approved a bill that would ban supporters and members of organizations designated as "extremist" from being elected to any post -- a move making it virtually impossible for anyone connected to jailed opposition politician Alexey Navalny to gain public office.

Under the draft bill approved on June 2 by the chamber, leaders and founders of organizations declared extremist or terrorist by Russia's courts will be banned from running for elected posts for a period of five years. Other members or employees of such organizations will face a three-year ban. The legislation still requires President Vladimir Putin's signature, which is widely expected.