Russia approves presidential term change

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-15-2008 15:33

Russian lawmakers have given tentative approval to constitutional changes that would extend the presidential term from four to six years.

The lower house of parliament, State Duma, voted 388-58 to pass the measure.

Russian lawmakers have given tentative approval to constitutional changes that would extend the  presidential term from four to six years.(CCTV.com)

 The chamber is dominated by the Kremlin-backed political party, United Russia.

Vladimir Pligin, Russia State Duma, said, "The suggestions by the President of Russian Federation are aimed at stable development of Russia's statehood, these proposals introduce a break in the terms of State Duma and the President of Russian Federation. This way the steadiness of the activities of the state machine is being increased."

After two more readings, the legislation must still be voted on by the upper house and a majority of regional legislatures. United Russia dominates those legislative bodies, as well.

Vladimir Putin was a widely popular president, but he was barred constitutionally from seeking a third straight four-year term.

The changes won't apply to President Dimitry Medvedev, who announced the move in his state-of-the-nation address last week.

Some analysts speculate that one scenario for Putin's return would involve Medvedev resigning early, which would then make Putin acting president and require new presidential elections.

Putin said earlier this week he backed a longer term for the next president, but that it was too early to say who that might be.

He's repeatedly said the legislation is not tailored for him and would be a boost for Russian democracy.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei