Why Russians voted overwhelmingly for Putin in recent elections

Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Novo-Ogaryovo residence outside Moscow, September 27, 2021. [AP photo]

This year appears to be one which voting attracts world attention because the states involved are both big and critical to regional and world stability. They tend to be unique in the way they assert themselves, protect perceived interests, and project global images.

Each depends on the leadership in the country and its ability to respond to assorted geopolitical dictates. Those who 'rescue' their people from desperation acquire a 'saviour' image. They exhibit vision, confidence, and inspire people out of despair and sense of hopelessness. They thereafter become very popular despite the challenges and manufactured obstacles. That appears to be what has happened in post-Cold War Russia whose presidential election has attracted a lot of attention.