Vladimir Putin, the long-standing leader of Russia, secured his fifth term as president in the recent election. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this predictable outcome:
1. Political System and Control: Over his 24-year tenure, Putin has meticulously tightened his grip on power. His political system ensures that no credible threat to his rule exists. Critics who dared to challenge him are either deceased, imprisoned, or in exile.
2. Constitutional Amendments: In 2020, Russia’s constitution was amended, extending the presidential term from four to six years. This change allowed Putin to cancel out his previous terms, effectively granting him a clean slate to run again in 2024. If he wins this term, he could remain president until 2030.
3. Media Promotion: The Kremlin’s well-oiled media machine consistently portrays Putin as a national leader who stands head and shoulders above any potential rivals. State TV hails him as “the people’s candidate,” transcending party support alone.
4. Confidence and Longevity: Putin’s confidence stems from his quarter-century in power. He has constructed a political system that delivered him 87% of the vote in previous elections. His re-election was never in doubt, making him the longest-serving Russian leader since Catherine the Great.
In summary, Putin’s fifth term was a foregone conclusion, reflecting both his ironclad control over Russia’s political landscape and the absence of a credible opponent.
