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Russian Duma Backs Presidential Term Extension

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Nov 14, 2008 1:30 am US/Pacific

Russian Duma Backs Presidential Term Extension

MOSCOW (AP) ― Russian lawmakers are tentatively backing constitutional changes that will extend the presidential term from four to six years.

Many believe the legislation could pave the way for Prime Minister Vladimir Putin to return to the presidency.

The State Duma, the lower house of parliament, voted on Friday 388-58 to pass the measure in the first of three readings.

It won't apply to the current president, Dmitry Medvedev.

Putin is widely popular, but he was barred constitutionally from seeking a third straight term as president. He tapped longtime protege Medvedev as his favored successor.

He has repeatedly said the legislation is not tailored for him and would be a boost for Russian democracy.

Medvedev announced he would seek the changes in his state-of-the-nation address last week.

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