Russia: Constitutional amendment vote on April 22 suspended /update 1

Event

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Wednesday, March 25, that the vote on constitutional changes scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, has been postponed. The vote was delayed due to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. President Putin said that a new date will be set at a later time.

Context

Under the constitutional changes, Putin will be able to run again for office, potentially allowing him to remain in office for another two terms until 2036. According to the current constitution, President Putin must step down in 2024. The public vote does not have any legal impact as the amendments have already been accepted into law by the Russian parliament.

Advice

Individuals in Russia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid any demonstration, protest, or mass gathering, and to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.