Russian President Vladimir Putin made a shocking announcement on Wednesday, followed by the resignation of all government members, even those who have been working with Putin for a long time.
Some political experts have aired their thoughts on the dramatic government shake-up that took the world by storm, CNN reported. Among those who shared their theories on why Putin announced reforms was long-term Russia analyst Valeriy Akimenko.
Akimenko, who currently works for the Conflict Studies Research Center, pointed out that Putin's decision may have been based on a "stitch-up between Putin and Medvedev." Current Prime Minister and former President Dmitry Medvedev was among those who stepped down.
For Akimenko, the two political figures may have had "a mutual agreement" regarding Putin's announcement of implementing reforms and Medvedev's choice to step down along with the others so the two can swap places come the 2024 elections.
Putin announced on Wednesday that reforms will be implemented to give less power to his successor. The reforms will also distribute more influence and authority to the Prime Minister's office and Parliament.
While the reforms may be pointing to a potential shift in positions between Medvedev and Putin, other political analysts believe there is a different purpose for the Russian government shake-up.
For Oleg Ignatov, analyst at Moscow-based think tank Center for Current Policy, Putin may be setting the stage for his potential rise at the new State Council. Ignatov explained that the Russian leader also signaled potential changes to the State Council's constitutional role.
Ignatov further revealed that some talks point to Putin potentially being interested in controlling the Russian State Council as he heads to the remaining years of his reign as president.
Russian opposition leader, Alexi Navalny, said on social media shortly after Putin's announcement, that it is clear the Russian chief wants to retain power and authority even as he steps down as president in 2024.
Most experts agree, noting that the latest development is further proof that Putin is in search of ways to keep holding on to his authority or at least a large amount of power in the government.
In an interview with Vox, director of the Project on Global Democracy and Emerging Technology at the Brookings Institution, Alina Polyakova, said the plan to keep holding power after 2024 "has been in the works for years.
Putin already appointed a new Prime Minister to take over Medvedev's responsibilities: Mikhail Mishustin. Political experts believe choosing Mishustin was also discussed properly as he is believed to be a loyal type who may not want to gain too much authority.
