[Destro]

You are incorrect - Putin is not doing away with all local elections. He is adopting the British and French models were regional officials are appointed by the central govt.

True fact - Don't be shocked - but London's mayor was appointed by the ruling party until 2000 when for the first time the mayor of London had to stand for office via direct election by the people of London - Londoners elected a communist!!

[redgolum]

Interesting, didn't know that. But the French and English systems are more set up from monarchies.

In one way this is a smart move. There is probably people trying to influence the governorships (probably not the right title) and have some of the states break away. Putin's move may be to limit this.