Putin sets July 1 for constitutional reform vote

Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has said a delayed vote on constitutional reforms that could extend his rule beyond 2024 will take place on July 1, pressing ahead with the plan despite the threat of the coronavirus pandemic.

The announcement comes days after officials said the health crisis had passed its peak – though the country is still reporting thousands of new infections every day.

“As the situation with the pandemic improves, we of course are returning to normal life, including the need to think about further work on amendments to the constitution,” Putin said in a video call with electoral and health officials.

The president agreed to proposals from officials that the vote be held on July 1, saying public health needed to be the “first and foremost priority” for organisers.

Putin announced the series of surprise constitutional reforms earlier this year, including a provision that would reset the clock on his term limits to zero. This would allow the 67-year-old to run for president again when his fourth term expires in 2024, and potentially to stay in power until 2036.

The vote will be held a week after Russia is due to hold rescheduled grand celebrations on June 24marking 75 years since the end of World War II in Europe.