Putin's Plan for Lifetime Rule Disrupted by COVID-19... "Constitutional Amendment Schedule Postponed"

658 Confirmed Cases in Russia... Allegations of Underreporting Raised
Putin: "Absolute Priority is the Safety and Health of the People"
Putin's Long-Term Rule Plan 'Shaken' as April Constitutional Amendment Postponed

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] The constitutional amendment referendum allowing Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, to effectively hold lifelong power has been postponed due to the increasing risk of the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19). This measure was taken amid criticisms that the COVID-19 related statistics announced by the Russian government do not reflect reality.

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

On the 25th (local time), President Putin said in a TV address, "The people know how much attention has been paid to the constitutional amendment issue, but the absolute priority is the safety and health of the people," adding, "For this reason, the referendum schedule will be postponed."

Originally, Russia planned to hold the constitutional amendment vote on the 22nd of next month. President Putin had previously expressed his intention to push forward with the amendment, stating that "the situation is under control" regarding COVID-19. However, he reversed his stance as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Russia surged recently.

President Putin announced the constitutional amendment plan abruptly in January this year. From that time, there were speculations that Putin was preparing for permanent rule, but there was debate over which method he would choose. After Russia's constitutional amendment proposal was released, the outline became clear. While maintaining the term limit clause that prohibits three consecutive presidential terms, the amendment aims to nullify the term limit regulations by newly adjusting presidential powers and other aspects.

Originally, under the three-term limit clause, President Putin could not run in the next presidential election after his term ends in 2024. However, through this amendment, he will be able to run again after completing his current term. Considering that the Russian presidential term is six years, Putin could maintain long-term rule for 30 years, even beyond the age of 80, through the amendment.

Earlier, the Russian upper and lower houses overwhelmingly approved this constitutional amendment. Subsequently, the Russian Constitutional Court also approved the amendment, leaving the referendum as the only remaining hurdle.

Along with the postponement of the amendment, President Putin emphasized preparedness for COVID-19 to the Russian people. He stated, "What Europe is experiencing could soon happen in Russia as well," and added, "It is absolutely important to follow the government's recommended measures. By responsibly following controlled actions, each person can protect themselves and their families." Unlike most European countries that have implemented movement restrictions, Russia has not yet imposed large-scale lockdown measures.

The announcement of the referendum postponement came after doubts were raised within Russia about the COVID-19 patient figures. There are criticisms that the actual number of confirmed COVID-19 cases is higher than the government’s announcement. Russia has currently announced a cumulative total of 658 confirmed COVID-19 cases. This figure has recently begun to show a rapid increase. Because of this, suspicions have already been raised inside and outside Russia that the government is underreporting the actual number of patients to prepare for the referendum next month.

President Putin also announced economic measures in response to COVID-19 and low oil prices. Russia plans to increase unemployment benefits and paid sick leave, and provide tax exemptions for small business owners. To fund this, President Putin explained that instead of using the sovereign wealth fund worth $150 billion (184 trillion won), the tax burden on the wealthy and others will be increased.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.