Without a doubt, Putin is far from the worst president, especially when you consider his predecessors. But we forget one thing. In the West, people have long recognized a simple and very important truth: power must change regularly. Even if the current president is an angel incarnate, after 8 years, it's time to say goodbye. It doesn't matter what kind of power it is; stagnation must never be allowed. Because the people don't just elect a new president; with the new president, the entire system is renewed. He will review the work of all ministers, identify shortcomings, and appoint new people. They, in turn, will also appoint new people to lower positions. And this is, in any case, better than the best president in the world sitting on the throne for half his life. The change of power is the only way for the people to control the government. And Putin is clinging to his throne and doesn't want to let go because if he leaves power, he's finished; he understands this and is very afraid. A new president will review his work and uncover so much that Putin could be sent to prison for life.
Those who voted for "stability" also had an argument: they say that they have already stolen enough for themselves, and now they will work for the country. But reality turned out to be simpler: "once you've eaten your fill, you want more," and "appetite comes with eating."
http://ajbolit444.livejournal.com/620165.html
I am an optimist in such matters (I can't help myself) and believe in the bright future of the country, I believe that science will gradually be revived (not only oil-oriented), factories will be restored, I believe that doctors and teachers will earn no less than average sales managers, I even believe that budget embezzlement will be minimized, but I do not believe that a change of president (even if honestly elected) can change the structure of the state apparatus. That is, some people will, of course, be replaced, but whether this will significantly affect the overall situation, I cannot understand, because there will be too many unknowns in this equation. Of course, fair elections and the change of power are a healthy practice, but what alternatives to Putin are there now? I would like to see them.