Vladimir Putin in his annual state of the nation address
delivered on Thursday in Moscow announced new shocking reforms and sweeping
changes to Russia's constitution that will ensure he remains in power for the
rest of his life.
On Wednesday Russia's prime minister Medvedev resigned after
being told by Putin of his plans, and on Thursday during a live address on
national TV, said he was sure the Russian people will support his sweeping
changes to the country's constitution that could keep him in power beyond 2024
long after his presidential term ends.
In his address, Putin described how power would be shifted
from the presidency to parliament and the state council and comes as the
Russian parliament backed his surprise choice for a new prime minister, Mikhail
Mishustin.
'Of course these are very serious changes to the political
system,' Putin said in his address as he promised a referendum on the plans.
'It would increase the role and significance of the
country's parliament ... of parliamentary parties, and the independence and
responsibility of the prime minister.'
'I'm sure that Russian people will support me'
In his speech, Putin also called for the power of the State
Council, an advisory body, to be increased and enshrined in the constitution
ensuring he rules for life just like China's leader Xi Jinping.
