ABSTRACT
The: next Duma and presidential elections in Russia, to take place in 2007 and 2008, have prompted intense speculation almost from the moment the last elections ended. The reason is not hard to explain, as Putin's legitimate term in office is coming to an end, and historically, the succession has almost always aroused instability and an atmosphere of crisis. The democratic institution of elections has not changed that aspect of things in Russia's dysfunctional political system. The main focus of interest is the March 2008 presidential election and the question of who will run in the race: will Putin stand for a third term, in which case the constitution will need to be revised, or will power pass to a successor?
