According to Vremya Novostei sources in Beslan and Vladikavkaz, anti-presidential sentiments have increased here since the events of September 3. "Dzasokhov promised no storm in any case, but failed to keep his word," say relatives of the dead hostages. Moreover, many of them believe that the number of victims could have been lower, if Dzasokhov had met the militants' demands and launched negotiations.
Ingush President Murat Zyazikov who the militants also wanted to negotiate with disappeared completely during these days. The Ingushes are discouraged over his silence and are demanding explanations. Mr. Zyazikov was also criticized for the militants' attack on Ingushetia in June.
North Ossetian presidential elections are due in January 2006, and contenders are already stepping up their efforts. In the current circumstances, the Kremlin, which supported Mr. Dzasokhov at the previous elections, may not support his early resignation. Anyway, the authority of the local power bodies has been seriously undermined.
