| Author (Corporate) | Cardiff EDC (Compiler) |
|---|---|
| Publication Date | 2020 |
| Content Type | News |
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Summary: Reports and analyses relating to proposed constitutional amendments put forward by Russian President Vladimir Putin in early 2020, followed by the resignation of the country's government including the Prime Minister Dimitry Medvedev. Further information: Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on 15 January 2020 - during his State of the Nation address - a set of proposals to amend the country's Constitution when it comes to the powers and mandates of the power structure in Russia, including the his own office. The amendments include the limitation of two terms in office for any future President, tightening residency requirements for presidential candidates, and letting Parliament choose candidates for Prime Minister and the cabinet - effectively weakening the presidential office. Mr Putin stated these amendments were a significant change to the country's Constitution, and suggested holding a nationwide referendum on the changes. Soon after Mr Putin's statements, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev handed in the cabinet's full resignation and announced he would not stand again to lead the government. He was later appointed as the deputy chairman of Russian's Security Council. Media sources reported that the cabinet was left in the dark over Mr Putin's proposed amendments. Mikhail Mishustin - the Head of the Federal Tax Service - was later put forward as the proposed new Prime Minister. Mr Putin allowed himself to be "persuaded" by deputies of his parliament, the State Duma, that a total reset of the count of presidential terms (he is currently serving his fourth — until 2024) would be good for Russia's stability. This means that he can be reelected for another two terms and stay in the Kremlin until he turns 84 in 2036. The proposal was made by the world's first female cosmonaut, Valentina Tereshkova, a person universally respected by Russians. Russia's lower house of parliament approved a range of amendments to the constitution on Wednesday, including a law that allows President Vladimir Putin to seek reelection after his current term ends in 2024. House Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin told reporters that 383 lawmakers voted in favor, 43 abstained, and none voted against. Putin's party dominates the Duma.
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| Subject Categories | Politics and International Relations |
| Subject Tags | National Politics |
| Countries / Regions | Russia |
