Putin signs russias constitutional reform law
On July 3, 2020, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a constitutional reform law, which was passed by the Russian parliament, the Federal Assembly, on June 25, 2020. The law makes significant changes to Russia's constitution, including:
- Limiting the number of presidential terms: The law limits the president to two consecutive terms, effectively allowing Putin to remain in power until 2036.
- Strengthening the role of the parliament: The law increases the powers of the State Duma, the lower house of parliament, and gives it more control over the government.
- Expanding the powers of the Constitutional Court: The law gives the Constitutional Court more authority to review and annul laws and government decisions.
- Changing the procedure for impeaching the president: The law makes it more difficult to impeach the president, requiring a two-thirds majority in the State Duma and a three-quarters majority in the Federation Council, the upper house of parliament.
- Introducing a new mechanism for appointing judges: The law introduces a new system for appointing judges, which gives more power to the president and the parliament.
- Amending the procedure for amending the constitution: The law makes it more difficult to amend the constitution, requiring a three-quarters majority in both houses of parliament and a national referendum.
The constitutional reform law has been widely criticized by opposition groups and human rights organizations, who argue that it is an attempt by Putin to consolidate his power and undermine democratic institutions in Russia. The law has also been criticized for its lack of transparency and the fact that it was passed without proper public debate or consultation.
The signing of the law has been seen as a significant step in Putin's efforts to maintain his grip on power and shape Russia's political landscape to his advantage.