Vladimir Putin Back At The Helm In Russia

  Russia’s former President Mr. Vladimir Putin was sworn in on May 7, 2012 for a third term to the country’s highest office. The oath-taking ceremony in Moscow was, however, overshadowed by mass demonstrations staged by disgruntled protesters. After taking the oath, Mr. Putin said that Russia was entering a new phase in its development that would define its place in the world in times to come.

  

Mr. Putin served two consecutive four-year terms as Russia’s President from 2000 to 2008. Thereafter, he shifted to the office of Prime Minister, having ceded the presidential office to Mr. Dmitry Medvedev, his handpicked successor. Meanwhile, the presidential term was extended from four to six years. It means that Mr. Putin will remain in office till 2018, and will have the option of running for a fourth term.

Shortly after Mr. Putin assumed office, outgoing President Mr. Medvedev was confirmed as the nation’s new Premier. This development was in keeping with the pre-determined succession strategy. The job swap, however, angered many Russians who came out in large numbers to stage protests, which at times turned violent, in Moscow and other Russian cities. According to observers, the protests were the biggest and most intense since the break-up of the Soviet Union over two decades ago.