Russia's Future, Putin's Legacy

Op-Ed Contributor: NY Times: "The public's antipathy toward the oligarchs, meanwhile, was simply used as a threat to enforce the deal � a threat that was proved to be credible when Russia's richest man, Mikhail Khodorkovsky, was arrested last year. Mr. Khodorkovsky had become a champion of modern corporate governance, restructuring his oil company, Yukos, and making it more transparent and efficient. The company became one of Russia's largest investors and taxpayers, and Mr. Khodorkovsky and his partners donated money to schools, universities and other charitable projects.

None of this helped him, however, when Mr. Khodorkovsky began to support parties other than Mr. Putin's. The retaliation was swift and not necessarily respectful of the law. Yet there was little public outcry over the Kremlin's tactics because Mr. Khodorkovsky is still disliked by about three-quarters of Russian voters.

By now, nobody has any illusions about Mr. Putin's respect for property rights or democratic values: he simply pays them lip service in order to consolidate his power. With last week's election, this task is finally accomplished. Mr. Putin now rules free from any campaign promises or political obligations. Political opposition is almost nonexistent. In contrast to his position four years ago, the president can finally pursue whatever agenda he wishes."