President Vladimir Putin approved higher compensation for police enforcement and military personnel on Monday, one of many steps critics believe are aimed to boost support for the ruling party ahead of a legislative vote.

The proposal, which raises their pay above inflation, comes only days before Russians go to the polls on September 17-19 for an election that the ruling United Russia party is anticipated to win despite a drop in support owing to falling living standards.

Putin’s decree, which was published on the Kremlin’s website, stated that in 2022 and 2023, military and law enforcement salaries would be raised to a figure higher than inflation.

The increase is based on assurances made by Putin during a United Russia summit in August, the exact terms of which were not mentioned in the directive.

(Reuters) – MOSCOW, Sept 13 (Reuters) – President Vladimir Putin approved higher compensation for police enforcement and military personnel on Monday, one of many steps critics believe are aimed to boost support for the ruling party ahead of a legislative vote.

The proposal, which raises their pay above inflation, comes only days before Russians go to the polls on September 17-19 for an election that the ruling United Russia party is anticipated to win despite a drop in support owing to falling living standards.

Putin’s decree, which was published on the Kremlin’s website, stated that in 2022 and 2023, military and law enforcement salaries would be raised to a figure higher than inflation.

The increase is based on assurances made by Putin during a United Russia summit in August, the exact terms of which were not mentioned in the directive.

Inflation in Russia last month stood at 6.7%, well above the central bank’s 4% target.

Putin last month also approved one-off payments of 15,000 rubles ($200) each to fire fighters, police officers, prosecutors and soldiers, among others, a move the Kremlin said was designed to safeguard the social needs of those receiving them.

He has also pledged similar payments to pensioners, many of whom have been affected by rising food rises and inflation.

Kremlin critics say such measures amount to targeted bribes of key voter groups upon whom Putin relies to remain in power. The Kremlin denies the payments are in any way connected with the elections.

Putin has been in power as either president or prime minister since 1999. He helped found the ruling United Russia party, though he is not a member.