Russian Politics: Putin and Medvedev Look To Swap Jobs

Here’s the latest part of Vladimir Putin’s resume:
-Prime Minister 1999-2000
-President 2000-2008
-Prime Minister 2008-Present
-President ???

The embattled Putin will run for president next year, having already earned the endorsement of current president Dmitry Medvedev.  The Constitution has been changed to allow anyone to serve two consecutive six-year terms even if that individual has previously served as president.  The election will be held in March, and many people expect Putin to return to the Kremlin with ease. 

As for Mr. Medvedev?  He will likely take over Mr. Putin’s position as prime minister.  This merry go round can be viewed in two ways.  First, the whole thing looks like a joke.  Despite holding the junior title of prime minister, Mr. Putin still pulls the strings in Russian politics.  The issue is not whether he will stay in power, but how will do it.  Second, the probable job swap will likely be viewed by Russians as a victory for Russian democracy.  The letter of the constitution is being obeyed, and the two most popular politicians can remain in positions of power.  Mr. Medvedev can continue to liberate Russia from bureaucracy and corruption and promote a high-tech answer to Silicon Valley, to be built at Skolkovo outside Moscow.  Mr. Putin can reclaim the presidency which signals stability and steadiness. 

Vladimir Putin has harassed and jailed opponents and confiscated their energy and media assets since coming to power.  Under his direction, elections always seem to favor those in power.  I predict the upcoming ones will be no different. 

Indeed, Russia faces many challenges in the upcoming years.  A stagnant economy, pervasive corruption, and a war in the north Caucasus highlight the struggles facing Russia.  The country’s economy is currently dependent upon natural resource extraction.