to hold back; to hinder

Link to present incidents:
Millions of Russians are heading for the polls as the country votes in general elections set to take 22 hours, and spread over 11 time zones.

Eleven parties are competing for places in the lower house, the Duma.

President Vladimir Putin's party is predicted to win, boosting his bid to retain power after leaving the Kremlin.

Opposition parties have accused the government of stifling their campaigns.
Independent monitors say their attempts to observe the poll have been hampered.