Putin pledges to accept prime minister post if protege is elected

PRESIDENT Vladimir Putin told a party congress yesterday he would accept the prime minister’s post if his long-time protege is elected president, guaranteeing Mr Putin a continuing heavyweight political role in Russia.

Ending speculation that he had another surprise up his sleeve in this tumultuous election season, Mr Putin also said he would not — as had been widely expected — seek to strengthen the post of prime minister at the expense of Russia’s powerful presidency.

Mr Putin last week said first deputy prime minister Dmitry Medvedev was his choice for the presidency, ensuring support by Mr Putin’s United Russia party.