MOSCOW: Vladimir Putin has clinched his fifth term in the Russian presidential election with an overwhelming 87.9 percent of the vote on Monday.
International media reports indicate a notable increase in voter turnout compared to the previous election, with 74.22 percent of the electorate in Moscow casting their votes, up from less than 70 percent in 2018. However, incidents of arrests and vandalism were reported at multiple polling stations across Russia.
Putin’s victory was decisive, with his closest rival, Nikolay Kharitonov, securing a mere 4.7 percent of the votes. Vladislav Davankov and Leonid Slutsky trailed behind with 3.6 percent and 2.5 percent of the votes, respectively. Criticisms from the West were leveled against the 2024 presidential election for its perceived lack of genuine competition, with many of Putin’s potential rivals either exiled or imprisoned.
With this landslide win, Putin is set to extend his tenure for another six years, solidifying his position as the country’s longest-serving leader since Joseph Stalin. Despite strong support for Putin, dissent is palpable among some Russians, particularly in light of the death of opposition figure Navalny, leading to expressions of discontent through protests.
Putin, a former intelligence officer, has amassed a significant net worth estimated at around $200 billion. During his regime, he has implemented laws that could potentially allow him to remain in office until 2036.
