Many believe change is designed to bring former President Vladimir Putin back . The Russian leader has been in power for almost a decade and his popularity ratings have remained high despite the economic crisis. Dmitri Medvedev proposed in November that head of state 's term be lengthened .
Many believe change is designed to bring former President Vladimir Putin back . Putin stepped down as president in May after two terms and is now PM . Dmitri Medvedev proposed in November that head of state 's term be lengthened .