Russia Ready For Presidential Poll

Russians go to the polls today (March 26) elect a new president. The outright favourite is Vladimir Putin. His lead in the polls is now so big that some are beginning to worry about a low voter turnout. On Friday the acting president went on nation television and appealed to his fellow countrymen to exercise their democratic right.

Friday was the final day of campaigning for Sunday's presidential election in Russia. But voter apathy now appears to be the biggest problem:

Vladimir Putin Said: "It is my obligation to ask you, my fellow countrymen, to carry out your constitutional duty. It is imperative to go to the polls on Sunday and choose the president of a new Russia."

Most of Putin's opponents have already conceded defeat. Only a few candidates are still trying to make the election a contest.

But in recent weeks, the crowds have been getting smaller and smaller. Even veteran campaigners like Vladimir Zhirinovsky can no longer draw on much support.

Others like liberal Grigory Yavlinsky appear to have their sights set on elections down the road. The audience at this event was too young to vote.

Second placed Gennady Zyuganov, the leader of the once all-powerful communist establishment, has yet to give up. He is expected to come second and may still force a run off with Putin and buy time for the acting president to stumble.

But for now, his image is untouchable. With the Russian economy showing signs of improvement and victory in Chechnya in sight, Putin appears set to remove acting from his title as Russian president.

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