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Russian President calls on Russians to obey the law

Other News Materials 12 December 2008 17:59 (UTC +04:00)

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the country's constitution, has called Russian citizens to greater compliance with the country's laws.

Everything must be done so that every one understands and follows the principles of freedom, democracy and justice, Medvedev said at a celebration in Moscow on Friday.

At the same time Medvedev did not exclude further changes to the constitution. It is currently being proposed that the term of office for the president be extended from 4 years to 6.

In addition, the parliament may in the future be elected for five years instead of the previous four years.

During the ceremony, a demonstrator against the proposed amendments shouted that the proposed amendments were "a disgrace," adding: "We need free elections."

Reacting calmly, Medvedev told security personnel: "Let him talk. That's what the constitution is there for: So that everyone can express his opinion."

The man was removed by security anyway.

Isolated street protests against the constitutional amendments have taken place, with critics fearing that the current leadership would use the laws to solidify their grip on power.

Both houses of parliament have agreed to the amendments, which are currently being read by the regional parliaments. The confirmation of the amendments is thought to be certain.

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