Boris Nemtsov

Boris Yefimovich Nemtsov (October 9, 1959 – February 27, 2015) was a prominent Russian physicist and liberal politician recognized for his significant contributions to the reform of Russia's post-Soviet economy. From 1991 to 1997, he served as the inaugural governor of Nizhny Novgorod Oblast under President Boris Yeltsin. His political career progressed as he held positions such as Minister of Fuel and Energy in 1997 and Vice Premier, also becoming a member of the Security Council until 1998. That year, he founded the Young Russia movement, co-established the Right Cause coalition, and played a pivotal role in forming the Union of Right Forces, which evolved into a political party. Throughout his political journey, Nemtsov was an active member of the Congress of People's Deputies (1990), the Federation Council (1993–1997), and the State Duma (1999–2003).

A vocal critic of Vladimir Putin from 2000 until his assassination, Nemtsov condemned the government's slide into authoritarianism, spotlighting corruption surrounding the Sochi Olympics and Russia's military involvement in Ukraine. He organized numerous protests, including Dissenters' Marches and rallies advocating for fair elections. Tragically, he was shot dead on February 27, 2015, near the Kremlin while preparing for a rally against Russia's actions in Ukraine. Just weeks prior to his death, he had voiced concerns for his safety. In June 2017, five men were convicted in connection to his murder, but the mastermind behind the assassination remains unidentified.