MOSCOW , Russia ( CNN ) -- The Russian parliament approved a constitutional amendment Friday to extend the presidential term from four to six years . Vladimir Putin was barred constitutionally from seeking a third consecutive term as president . There is widespread speculation in Russian media that the change is aimed at paving the way for a return to the Kremlin by Prime Minister Vladimir Putin , who remains a popular and powerful figure since leaving the president 's office in May . The Kremlin maintains the amendment -- along with other proposed changes to the terms in office for elected officials -- is necessary to ensure the stability of future Russian governments . President Dmitry Medvedev announced the measures just two weeks ago , in his first state-of-the-nation speech on November 5 . The lower house of the Russian parliament had its third and final reading Friday before putting the measures to a vote . It passed by a vote of 392 to 57 , with those against representing the Communist Party faction . There were no abstentions . Further approval is needed from the upper house of parliament and regional councils before the changes become law . The amendments will come into force when at least two-thirds of the nation 's 83 regional parliaments and assemblies -- or 56 -- approve them . Analysts have expressed concern about the rapid movement of the measures through parliament . They say the government may be seeking to capitalize on Putin 's popularity amid the financial crisis , which has dented support for the current leadership . The next Russian presidential elections are scheduled for 2012 . There is speculation in Russia that the new measures could set the stage for fresh elections , allowing Putin to sidestep a ban on a third presidential term and stand again for president . -- CNN 's Matthew Chance and Max Tkachenko contributed to this report .
Russian media speculates change needed to pave the way for Putin 's return . Russia says amendment needed to ensure integrity of future elections . President Dmitry Medvedev announced the measures two days ago . Next Russian presidential elections set for 2012 .