In a strategic move, Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced that he will run as an independent candidate in the upcoming presidential election, a process often criticized for its lack of true democratic competition.
With Vladimir Putin having been a dominant figure in the Kremlin for over two decades, his decision to run independently is perceived as an attempt to portray himself as a unifying figure, particularly in the face of Russia’s isolation due to the invasion of Ukraine and the resultant economic challenges.
Vladimir Putin, who has led Russia either as president or prime minister, has twice amended the constitution, allowing him to potentially remain in power until his mid-80s. Addressing the decision, Putin stated, “I will not hide the fact that at different times I had different thoughts. Now you are right, this is a time [when] the decision needs to be made. I will run for the post of president of the Russian Federation.”
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Supporting Putin’s independent candidacy, Sergei Mironov, a senior Vladimir Putin ally and leader of the A Just Russia party, confirmed that signatures would be collected for this purpose. Over 700 politicians and influential figures from various sectors, including sports and culture, endorsed Putin’s candidacy in a meeting held on Saturday. United Russia, Putin’s ruling party, is expected to continue backing the president in the election campaign.
In contrast to Russia, Ukraine, currently at war, has delayed its election, with President Volodymyr Zelensky deeming it inappropriate to hold a democratic process during such a critical time.
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The outcome of Russia’s March election is widely viewed as a formality, given Putin’s control over the state, media, and the suppression of mainstream dissent. Opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Putin’s prominent critic, is currently missing after a prison transfer and has been barred from participating in the polls.
Vladimir Putin’s presidency has been marked by his longevity in power, surpassing even Joseph Stalin. Despite a brief stint as prime minister from 2008 to 2012, Putin has maintained control, with Dmitry Medvedev serving as his close aide during the presidential term. As the election approaches, Putin’s dominance and the absence of credible opposition underscore the unique political landscape in Russia.
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