Putin sends political plan to MPs in Russia reform push

Putin sends political plan to MPs in Russia reform push

MOSCOW (AFP) – President Vladimir Putin moved quickly on Monday to push through an overhaul of Russia’s political system that has fueled speculation over his ambitions after his term expires.

Less than a week after announcing the reforms that unleashed a political storm in Russia, Putin submitted the package of constitutional amendments to lawmakers.

The bill proposes changes that transfer some powers from the president to parliament and the State Council.

But according to the amendments submitted to parliament, the president also receives additional powers.

The overhaul would also transform the State Council from an advisory body to an institution – potentially headed by Putin – that would shape domestic and foreign policy as well as social and economic development, according to the amendments.

Putin, who first became president 20 years ago, announced the proposed changes in a state of the nation address last Wednesday, prompting the government of his loyal lieutenant Dmitry Medvedev to resign.

The reforms include giving parliament the power to name the prime minister and limit the president to only two terms in total, instead of two successive terms.

The State Duma’s legislative committee is to discuss the package on Tuesday, and the lower house will decide Wednesday when to debate the amendments.