A crucial decision awaits the members of the Federation Council, the upper house of the Federal Assembly of Russia, as they are expected to vote on the proposal to set March 17 as the date for the next presidential election.

The proposal, which was approved by the State Duma, the lower house, on December 4, has sparked controversy and criticism from some opposition parties and civil society groups, who claim that it violates the constitutional rights of the citizens and gives an unfair advantage to the incumbent president.

“The issue will be submitted to the next plenary session of the Federation Council on December 7, 2023,” Andrei Klishas, the head of the house’s committee on constitutional legislation, said in his Telegram channel.

The announcement of the election date is a formality, but it will clear the way for an expected announcement soon by President Vladimir Putin that he will run for another six-year term.

The proponents of the proposal argue that it is necessary to ensure the stability and security of the country in the face of external threats and internal challenges, and that it is consistent with the constitutional amendments that were adopted in a national referendum in July 2020.

The outcome of the vote will have a significant impact on the political landscape of Russia and its relations with the international community.