Russian presidential term extension bill approved

The lower house of Russia's parliament has given its final approval to a bill extending the presidential term from four to six years.

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev proposed the bill seen by many as a step toward Vladimir Putin's return to power.

The Kremlin-controlled State Duma voted 392-57 Friday to approve the bill at its third and final reading. It now goes to the upper house for an expected swift approval.

The widely popular Putin, now prime minister, was constitutionally barred from seeking a third straight term as president in elections this year.

Putin has said the change was not tailored for him. But many observers predict that Medvedev could step down early to let Putin reclaim the presidential seat.

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