Medvedev's Facebook Status Gets 11,266 Comments From Angry Voters

Angry Russian voters have targeted Dmitry Medvedev's Facebook page, following disputed elections in Russia that were criticised for being fraudulent, unfair and one-sided. Over 11,000 people have commented on a status update Medevedev made after anti-government protests in Moscow over the weekend.

There were so many comments that Facebook has had a technical problem, and only 50 comments can be read at a time.

Facebook has established itself as a channel for freedom of speech and was instrumental in supporting the Arab Spring because activists were able to express themselves and release information they would otherwise not have been able to do. In this light, anyone has the right to express their opinion.

Still, since Facebook is an open book and anyone can post on a page they 'Like', critics who are hysterical, abusive, insane or unbalanced should be ignored or banned. As a public figure, Medvedev must expect to receive criticism via Facebook, but at the same time, critics need to remember their manners. Why is this important? Because people are not only judging the object of criticism, they are judging the critic as well.

Medvedev is also entitled to his opinion, and to express it. In a status update, he essentially said that he would investigate polling stations to see if they complied with electoral legislation.

Here is what he actually said:

"Under the Constitution, citizens of Russia have freedom of speech and freedom of Assembly. People have a right to express their position that they did yesterday. Well, that all took place within the framework of the law. I do not agree with any slogans or statements made at rallies. Nevertheless, I have instructed to check all polling stations regarding compliance with the legislation on elections."

Whether this incident is cyber bullying, as some analysts are saying, or an open and vigorous political debate, we will leave up to you to decide. 

It would be interesting to see if Medvedev posts an update about the results of his investigation...

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