Support The Moscow Times!

As Moscow Region Governor, Shoigu Won't Head Government

Incoming Moscow region Governor Sergei Shoigu Sergei Porter

Unlike his predecessors, the incoming governor of the Moscow region won't act as head of government.

That's in accordance with a new bill approved by local lawmakers, RIA-Novosti reported Thursday.

Under the new rules, which have yet to be worked out, the two offices will be separated.

"The region's government will be doing operational work, allowing the governor to focus on federal-level projects" and "issues of strategic development," a statement issued by the regional legislature announced, Interfax reported.

Previously, the region's governor simultaneously took on both roles.

Sergei Shoigu, the emergency situations minister, will replace Boris Gromov as the Moscow region's governor next month.

In addition to its decision to separate administrative duties, the legislature was scheduled to vote Thursday on a proposal to create a separate administration for Shoigu, the report said.

The changes are expected "to increase the effectiveness" of the regional authorities at all levels, the legislature's chairman, Sergei Yudakov, said, according to RIA-Novosti.

Shoigu is widely expected to bring in his own team to help govern the region after he takes office.

… we have a small favor to ask.

As you may have heard, The Moscow Times, an independent news source for over 30 years, has been unjustly branded as a "foreign agent" by the Russian government. This blatant attempt to silence our voice is a direct assault on the integrity of journalism and the values we hold dear.

We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. Our commitment to providing accurate and unbiased reporting on Russia remains unshaken. But we need your help to continue our critical mission.

Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just 2. It's quick to set up, and you can be confident that you're making a significant impact every month by supporting open, independent journalism. Thank you.

Continue

Read more