Russians hold mass rally against Putin - Gayo Lues

On Saturday, Russians braved freezing temperatures in the country’s capital, Moscow, to challenge Putin’s alleged monopoly of power during his bid for the presidency.

This is the third mass rally against Putin in less than two months, with previous protests stemming from charges of fraud and voter rigging in the December 4th parliamentary elections surrounding the premier’s party.

Meanwhile, government supporters have staged a rival rally in Moscow.

In response to the ongoing protests, Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev has announced sweeping reforms to provide Russians with “more opportunities for political participation.”

The Russian president also warned against foreign interference in the country’s domestic affairs.

Both Putin and Medvedev have said that Russians have a right to protest but only when local authorities grant permission.

Putin has accused the United States of encouraging and financing protesters.

Medvedev is reportedly due to become prime minister under a prospective Putin presidency in March 2012 — a job swap bitterly criticized by the opposition.

Earlier this month, tens of thousands of demonstrators rallied in nationwide protests dubbed “For Fair Elections.” At least 50,000 law enforcement officers and riot police were deployed and hundreds of protesters were arrested.

GMA/MYA