What is the new Russian Legislation signed by Putin?

April 6, 2021

The Russian President Vladimir Putin recently signed a legislation that will allow him to stay in power till 2036. The Russian leader had already been in power for more than two decades. And he is 68 years old.

Background

According to the previous constitution, Putin should have stepped down after his second consecutive term that is to end in 2024. Now, with the new constitutional amendment, he can stay in power till 2036.

In 2020, the Russians voted for constitutional amendments that will allow Putin to recontest after 2024. Majority voted in favour of the amendment.

Why the changes?

According to Article 81 of Russian Constitution, the same person cannot hold the office of President more than two terms in a row. Vladimir Putin was elected as president in 2012 and again re-elected as president in 2018. He will now stay in power till 2024. The term of a president in Russia is six years.

What are the changes made to the Russian Constitution?

The new constitution has not changed the two-term limit. However, it has removed the words “in a row”. With this, Putin will be able to run for President elections for another two terms under the new constitution.

2020 Referendum

A Constitutional referendum was held in Russia in 2020. In this, 79% of the voters supported the changes to the constitution.
The amendments increased the powers of advisory bodies and State councils. Bottom line, the amendments tightened Putin’s grip over Russia.