Russian President Vladimir Putin has once again entrusted Mikhail Mishustin with the role of Prime Minister, reinforcing the continuity of governance amidst a period marked by economic sanctions and political challenges. Mishustin, who has previously served four years as head of the Russian government, submitted the Cabinet’s resignation in adherence to formalities as Putin commenced his fifth term as President in a ceremonious inauguration at the Kremlin.
Mishustin, known for his technocratic expertise and low political profile, has been a key figure in sustaining Russia’s economic stability despite the severe sanctions imposed by Western nations due to Russia’s involvement in Ukraine. His reappointment, which was widely predicted by analysts, underscores the Kremlin’s preference for technocratic governance in lieu of overt political maneuvering.
The reappointment process, swift in its execution, saw Putin’s submission of Mishustin’s candidacy to the State Duma, with lawmakers promptly conducting a session to validate the appointment. This procedure, a result of constitutional revisions in 2020 that ostensibly expanded parliamentary authority, is largely considered a formality given the Kremlin’s dominance over the legislative body.
While most Cabinet members are anticipated to retain their positions, speculation surrounding the future of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu persists. Shoigu’s standing has been subjected to scrutiny following the apprehension of his associate, Timur Ivanov, on bribery charges. Ivanov’s arrest is perceived by many as a veiled critique of Shoigu, hinting at possible repercussions for the Defense Minister whose tenure has been marred by criticisms over the Russian military’s initial setbacks in Ukraine.
The recent turmoil within the defense sector has been exemplified by the fierce denunciations from Yevgeny Prigozhin, the once-prominent leader of the Wagner mercenary group, who notably demanded Shoigu’s dismissal along with General Valery Gerasimov, the Chief of the General Staff. Despite Prigozhin’s untimely demise in an enigmatic plane crash, which many attribute to an act of retribution by the Kremlin, Shoigu’s position seemed to have momentarily stabilized. However, the latest developments suggest that the Defense Minister may yet be grappling with political vulnerability within the Kremlin’s corridors of power.
Putin’s choice to maintain Mishustin at the helm of the Russian government indicates a strategic preference for economic and administrative continuity over political dynamism, a decision that is likely to have significant implications for Russia’s domestic and international posture in the months to come.
Relevant articles:
– Vladimir Putin reappoints Mikhail Mishustin as Russian PM: Who is he? , The Indian Express, 05/10/2024
– Putin Reappoints Mikhail Mishustin as Russian Prime Minister, TIME, 05/10/2024
– Vladimir Putin reappoints Mikhail Mishustin as prime minister, Financial Times, 05/10/2024
– Putin Reappoints Mishustin As Russian Prime Minister, Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty, 05/10/2024
– Putin reappoints technocrat prime minister as fifth term kicks off, Euronews, 05/10/2024