Putin refuses to name successor

Moscow, Oct 25 (UNI) Russian President Vladimir Putin today declined to name his successor, saying he was still not ready to make a recommendation for the candidate for the top-notch job.

''I have not said I would name him. I only know that it is a person aged 35 years or more who has lived for a certain number of years in Russia as the law requires,'' Mr Putin told reporters after televised question-answer session.

''However, as a citizen of Russia, I am reserving the right to choose in the process of voting as well.

''I don't think I should be restricting my right to speak on the issue in the media. When the time comes, I will speak of it,'' Putin noted.

He said in general, the strongest candidate should be determined by the people of Russia.

''I am happy that my life is closely connected with the life of Russia,'' Mr Putin said, pointing out that the future of the country must not depend on one person.

UNI XC KD DB2014