Vladimir Putin remains in office as the President of Russia following his success in another election. Exit surveys indicate a resounding triumph in a contest where his administration disqualified his sole significant rival.
The Russian presidential election occurred between March 15 and 17. Prior to this, Boris Nadezhdin, an anti-war contender perceived as Putin’s main rival, was barred from participating by the Central Election Commission. This action reflects a common pattern in Russian politics where significant challengers are either disqualified, detained, or reportedly subjected to harm.
According to Nikolai Petrov, a representative from the London-based think tank Chatham House, the outcome of the recent election solidified Russia as a fully consolidated autocracy. With the elimination of significant competition, Putin purportedly secured a sweeping victory. Consequently, Putin is set to lead the nation for another six-year term. Initial reports suggest that with 50% of the votes tallied, Putin garnered 87.3% of the vote, while the election saw a turnout of 73%.
At 71 years old, Putin holds the title of the longest-serving Russian president since dictator Josef Stalin. Surpassing this record seems plausible for him. Stalin governed the Soviet Union from 1924 until his death in 1953, a span of 29 years. Putin, born a year before Stalin’s passing, initially served as president from 2000 to 2008 (8 years). By the conclusion of his upcoming term, he will have served an additional 18 years (2012-2030). Should he secure victory in one more election, he will exceed Stalin’s tenure.
Following the election results, Putin addressed the public, asserting that throughout history, no one has succeeded in quashing the determination of the Russian populace. Concurrently, numerous demonstrators gathered at polling stations, allegedly pouring paint into ballot boxes and igniting booths. Among those involved were elderly women questioning Putin’s legitimacy. Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Alexei Navalny, a prominent opposition figure who passed away, participated in the protests. She noted casting her vote but opted to write her husband’s name on the ballot.
