Putin Announces Bid for Fifth Term
Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared his candidacy for the upcoming March 2024 presidential election, solidifying his pursuit of a fifth term in office.
The announcement was made during an awards ceremony honouring veterans of the war with Ukraine, a conflict that has significantly shaped his political landscape.
Putin's decision comes as election officials set March 15th -17th 2024, as the designated dates for the presidential contest. The 71-year-old leader, who previously served as president from 2000-2008 and returned to power in 2012, is poised to extend his 24-year leadership of Russia, now surpassing any ruler since Soviet dictator Josef Stalin.
The election is seen by many as a formality, with little opposition to Putin's dominance as opposition figures who could pose a challenge remain marginalised, imprisoned, or in exile.
Constitutional amendments in 2020 have extended the presidential term from four to six years, providing Putin with a clean slate to run again and potentially stay in power until 2036.
As the March 2024 election approaches, Putin's candidacy is expected to dominate the political landscape, emphasising his enduring influence over Russia's political system.
