Thousands marched in Moscow on Sunday to commemorate slain opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, who was shot dead near the Kremlin three years ago.

Authorities gave permission for the memorial rally, but for many it was also a protest against the ruling party, just weeks before presidential elections.

More than 7,000 people filled the streets, commemorating one person.

The outspoken critic of President Vladimir Putin was murdered late at night in central Moscow in 2015.

"He was an icon of democracy," march co-organizer Sergei Kusmin said. "He was our teacher, and an example of how we should proceed." 

Nemtsov supporters march every year in his honor, carrying flowers to lay at the spot where he died.

The procession is much more than a memorial march, however. Attendees believe Nemtsov was killed because he was too critical of those in power. This year, with presidential elections just weeks away, they say they are standing up for democracy itself.

Putin is widely expected to win next month's vote easily, but with his main challenger barred from running for office, some feel these protests are their only platform.

"I wanted to protest our government and its policies," one marcher said. "I think they are leading our country in a totally wrong direction."

"Nobody cares but us," according to another. "It is very important for our political life, our political future, and our civil future."

Five men were convicted last year of killing Nemtsov, though the question of who ordered the killing remains.

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