Putin vows to listen in bid to woo back voters

Prime minister Vladimir Putin has told his ruling United Russia Party it must listen to voters to reverse a decline in popularity before a parliamentary election.

In a debate yesterday Mr Putin – who has not yet said if he will run for the presidency next March – said Russia’s leaders must be ready to make tough decisions.

Sitting president Dmitry Medvedev has also refused to say whether he will run again.

Both men will address thousands of party members in a Moscow sports stadium today.

Mr Putin said: “Responsible authorities should always not only listen to the heartbeat but if they see and understand it, then they should prescribe drugs if there is any sort of problem.

“The authorities should explain to people in a clear way – not with truncheons and teargas, of course – but with discussion and dialogue.”

Mr Putin has a reputation as a tough leader. His remarks could be interpreted as underlining the need for him to lead Russia after the elections. He held the presidency from 2000 to 2008 but was barred by the constitution from running on a third consecutive occasion.

Political analysts expect him to delay his announcement until after the 4 December election to the State Duma lower house.

Opinion polls show United Russia could struggle to keep its two-thirds majority in the Duma. A strong showing would strengthen Mr Putin’s hand.