Putin sees 'moral right' to hold influence

MOSCOW, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin said victory for his United Russia party in elections Dec. 2 would give him the political capital to keep his hold on power.

"If the people vote for United Russia, whose list I lead, it means that they trust me and, in turn, means that I will have the moral right to hold those in the Duma and the Cabinet responsible for the implementation of the objectives that have been identified so far," Putin is quoted in Wednesday's Moscow Times.

Putin announced his decision last month to run on the pro-Kremlin United Russia's list for State Duma elections, boosting the party's appeal and securing his power base.

Putin's second term as president expires in May and the Russian Constitution forbids him from seeking a third. Analysts told the Times Putin's decision to run in the Duma is a means to advance his doctrines in Russia.

Andrei Vorobyov, chairman of United Russia's central executive committee, commented on Putin's legacy and his Duma decision, telling the Times "The third term will involve us leading the country to victory together and implementing the strategic directions given in Putin's Plan."