MOSCOW (AP) - Hundreds of liberal and radical party activists rallied in Moscow on Sunday, demanding greater press freedom and more access to the country's state-dominated television networks.
Meanwhile, the leaders of two top Russian political parties appeared in a rare prime time interview on state-run television, apparently underscoring new efforts by the Kremlin to improve media access and improve its image.
Critics have accused President Vladimir Putin of cracking down on freedom of speech since he came to power in 2000 and of shutting down television stations whose reporting was critical of the government.
In an apparent effort to counter criticism of a growing centralization of power, Putin promised parliamentary leaders that he would ensure that state media offered access to all political forces.
Liberal party leader Grigory Yavlinsky told protesters that Russia has no freedom of the press.
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