Government Must Rest On Public Movement That Represents The Interests Of A Majority Of The Population - Russian President

The government must rest on a public movement that represents the interests of a majority of the population, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, addressing the congress of the newly established Unity and Fatherland all-Russian party. "A government will not last long if it does not rest on a public movement that represents the interests of a majority of the population," the president said. In the Higher Council of the newly established party there are people holding high posts in the state, he said. Yet, he added "I would like to point out that calling your party a party of power on these grounds would be precipitate and, to put it straight, would not take much wisdom." "It would make sense only if the government itself does not make mistakes and enjoys the people's support," Putin pointed out. He expressed a hope that Unity and Fatherland can well become a "party of a majority." "Russia needs parties that can win respect and support of the people," the president said. "The society needs parties that will uphold citizens' rights and interests. Only in that case will you become a party of a majority."