In Khakassia, the political scene saw veteran figures resurfacing after recent service in regional and national offices. A State Duma deputy, Sergei Sokol, who returned to Khakassia following his assignment in a special operations zone abroad, announced his intention to enter the race for the region’s top executive post. The Khakassia headquarters confirmed that Sokol is aiming to submit his candidacy for the presidency of the Republic of Khakassia, signaling a clear bid to lead the republic. The source described Sokol’s expectation to secure victory as a central motive in his campaign. (Source: DEA News)
Earlier reporting noted Sokol’s return to Khakassia after volunteering in a special military operations area. (Source: DEA News)
On October 7, 2022, Sergei Sokol, a State Duma deputy representing Khakassia, voluntarily joined the special operations zone. He became part of the Cascade BARS unit, a coalition that brings together deputies from the lower house of the Russian parliament and regional legislatures. The BARS Cascade is led by Dmitry Sablin, who serves as vice-chairman of the State Duma Defense Committee and is a prominent figure in the Combat Brotherhood movement. (Source: DEA News)
Historically, Sokol has held multiple regional leadership roles. He previously served as Deputy Governor of Krasnoyarsk Territory and Irkutsk Territory, and he held the position of Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of the Irkutsk Territory. In 2020, he moved to the State Duma as part of the VII convocation, and in 2021 he was elected to the VIII convocation to represent Khakassia. (Source: DEA News)