With his constitutional 'reform,' Putin follows a familiar playbook to extend autocratic rule
Frequently, the most convenient vehicle for pushing through change that works to a leader’s advantage is the constitution, generally a country’s revered founding document or one adopted after momentous social change. For an authoritarian head of state or government, being able to characterize as constitutional even profoundly undemocratic actions — such as jailing political opponents in the name of national security — provides a veneer of legitimacy, analysts say.
“For some of the most undemocratic moves, you will hear people using the most democratic-sounding language,” said Behrendt, of Freedom House. In its most recent annual survey, in 2019, the group found for the 13th year in a row that more countries had become more repressive than had become more free.
Russia’s leading opposition leader, Alexei Navalny, wrote on Twitter that Putin’s constitutional plans were indicative of his intent to “rule until he dies.”Another common autocratic tactic is ending or extending term limits on the holding of office, but the practice tends to take place along a spectrum.
Trump, whose impeachment trial on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress began Thursday in the Senate, has frequently mused at campaign-style rallies about extending his own term beyond 2024 if he is reelected, always framing it as a joke.
Indonesia Berita Terbaru, Indonesia Berita utama
Similar News:Anda juga dapat membaca berita serupa dengan ini yang kami kumpulkan dari sumber berita lain.
How Vladimir Putin is preparing to rule for everVladimir Putin’s regime has killed too many people to make it plausible that he would voluntarily give up power
Baca lebih lajut »
Will Vladimir Putin be Russia's 'leader for life'?By taking steps to tighten his grip on power, Putin is also sending a message to the wider world. | Analysis by lukemcgee
Baca lebih lajut »
Russian President Vladimir Putin jokes Trump should visit Syria, Assad says he will host him'If Trump arrives along this road, he will be a good man,' Assad said, to which Putin laughed before replying, 'He will change for the better.'
Baca lebih lajut »
Russia is leading the world with its weapons, Putin claimsRussian President Vladimir Putin added that Russia is not a threat.
Baca lebih lajut »