Medvedev takes power with civil rights pledge

DMITRY MEDVEDEV was inaugurated as Russia’s president yesterday, pledging to bolster the country’s economic development and civil rights, in what may signal a departure from his predecessor’s heavy-handed tactics.

Medvedev took the oath of office in the Kremlin’s golden-hued Andreyevsky Hall, bringing to an end Vladimir Putin’s eight years as president.

But Putin is sure to continue to wield huge influence in the country.

Little more than two hours after becoming president, Medvedev nominated Putin to be the new prime minister.

Medvedev has pledged to continue the policies pursued by Putin, and some observers see him as more likely to be a handmaiden than an independent leader.

But in his inaugural address, Medvedev referred to civil rights issues several times.

Under Putin the role of civil society came under question, as opposition groups were marginalised.