Changing the Rules: What Comes After a Putin Election Victory?
This is a summary of an article originally published by the Financial Times with the subheading: "While the president is expected to be re-elected, the March vote is prompting a debate about his future."
The author writes that Russia's upcoming March presidential elections are raising a multitude of questions regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin's future. Moscow is awash in rumors that Putin could arrange for a successor to run in his place. Those close to the Kremlin speculate that amendments to Russia's constitution may be forthcoming in order to ensure Putin's long-term future. One possible amendment would see the State Council, currently an advisory body to the president, transformed into the primary governing body. Putin could then become head of the State Council. Meanwhile, members of Putin's inner circle are also hoping for constitutional change in order to "protect their interests in a more sustainable way." Another idea under consideration would have the presidential administration and government merge, like in Washington.
Read the full article at Financial Times.
