Russia’s Election Commission officially registers President Vladimir Putin as a candidate for the March 2024 presidential election, marking his bid for another six years in power.
Running as an independent candidate, Putin’s control over the political system, crafted during his 24-year rule, appears unchallenged.
With prominent critics either imprisoned or abroad and independent media restricted, Putin’s re-election seems nearly assured.
Despite running as an independent, Putin’s approval ratings around 80 percent overshadow the Kremlin-associated United Russia party, positioning him as a dominant force.
The Central Election Commission clears Putin after validating 315,000 signatures from all regions, meeting the 300,000 required for independent candidates. Other approved candidates, largely aligned with Kremlin policies, include Nikolai Kharitonov, Leonid Slutsky, and Vladislav Davankov.
Notably, liberal politician Boris Nadezhdin challenges the status quo, advocating for a halt to the Ukraine conflict and dialogue with the West.
Thousands of Russians support Nadezhdin’s candidacy, posing a rare opposition display in Russia’s controlled political landscape.
Putin’s eligibility for two more six-year terms, thanks to constitutional reforms, could extend his rule until 2036, further solidifying his influence.
As the election unfolds, the limited opposition and Putin’s enduring popularity set the stage for another chapter in Russian politics.
