Vladimir Putin is officially back as Russian President. The elections commission announced that Putin had secured nearly 64 percent of the popular vote. His closest opponent from the communist party won just 17 percent. Some congratulated the president on his new post and said the latest elections were fair and transparent. But not everyone was as happy with the news. In eastern Russia, voters accuse the president of buying his office. Analysts say that Putin could continue to face a stronger opposition as anti-government protests that began last year grow. Many see the ruling United Russia Party as an obstacle to modernization and economic growth. However, the strong win will likely give the government much-needed legitimacy for the time being. Elections observers are set to make their initial report on violations Monday afternoon.
