Russian PM and cabinet resigns as Putin announces constitutional shift

RUSSIA / FSU POLITICS - In Brief 15 Jan 2020 by Alex Teddy
On January 15 the Russian Prime Minister and cabinet all resigned. Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev had even been touted by some to be the next president – though his single term in that role in 2008-2012 was not judged a success. Much more likely now is a different successor and constitutional reforms, which were laid out by President Vladimir Putin during his State of the Nation address today. A public vote will be held on the changes – possibly to seek popular approval ahead of parliamentary elections. These are to be held in the next 18 months.Mikhail Mishustin has been nominated for the new prime ministership but not yet confirmed. Something of an outsider for observers, he had been head of the Tax Service for a decade and is seen as an effective technocrat who has modernised and streamlined much of the Service’s architecture. His approval is now required by the Duma (parliament).President Putin is proposing major changes to the constitution - shifting power from the presidency to the Duma and also the Senate. Until now the PM and cabinet have been appointed at the president's discretion. Putin's idea is that the Duma will have the power to appoint and dismiss the PM and cabinet, with the Senate helping select law enforcement chiefs. Putin would also like to see the State Council enhanced in status. It is presently advisory and is chaired by Putin. Putin is due to retire in 2024. Speculation as to his successor is feverish. But few people saw the PM and cabinet resignation coming. There is a possibility that the constitution will be amended to allow Putin a fifth term as president or a new title such as 'Leader of the Nation' could be created as has been done in Kaz...

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