Putin seeks to consolidate new powers under executive domain, cites national security reform as basis

Following the Beslan school siege led by Chechen terrorists, President Putin is introducing legislation to the State Duma that would, "limit the number of political parties" and place "full control over nominating regional leaders" in the hands of the president.

Are we seeing the beginnings of a new U.S.S.R.-lite?

"The last link in the system of checks and balances, which has prevented an excessive concentration of power in one pair of hands, is being abolished," the opposition party Yabloko said in a statement.

Indeed.

"The will of a single person is imposed on the whole of society," echoed Communist party leader Gennady Zyuganov. "What he is looking for is the usurping of power."

...this coming from a Communist.

Pending the Duma's approval of these measures, the Russian people can kiss local democracy ?? ????????.

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Posted by Kyer at September 13, 2004 11:09 PM