Putin OKs law to stay in power

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law on constitutional changes that could keep him in power for another 16 years, a step that must still be approved in a nationwide vote.

Mr. Putin signed the measure Saturday, the Kremlin said, three days after it sailed through the Russian parliament with only one vote against. It must be approved by the country’s Constitutional Court and in a referendum set for April 22. The court, which has never defied the Kremlin under Mr. Putin, is expected to approve the changes.

Under current law, Mr. Putin would not be able to run for president again in 2024 because of term limits, but the new measure would reset his term count, allowing him to run for two more six-year terms. He has been in power since 2000 and could now remain in power until 2036.

Other constitutional changes further strengthen the presidency and emphasize the priority of Russian law over international norms — a provision reflecting the Kremlin’s irritation with the European Court of Human Rights and other international bodies that have often issued verdicts against Russia.

49 detained in Moscow for political protests

Police in the Russian capital have detained dozens of people at a protest against political repression outside the headquarters of the Federal Security Service.

The OVD-Info group, which monitors arrests at demonstrations in Russia, said 49 people were detained Saturday. It was not immediately clear what charges would be filed.

Pakistan offers help to secure Afghan peace

Pakistan on Thursday signaled its willingness to help Afghans deal with challenges in efforts for peace in their country.

“Collaborative approach and patience can help overcome all challenges for which Pakistan is ready to play its part with utmost sincerity,” Chief of Army Staff Gen. Qamar Bajwa said while chairing the 230th Corps Commanders’ Conference.

The reiteration of the support for Afghan peace process has come as the agreement signed between Taliban and the U.S. last month through Pakistani facilitation ran into trouble and the March 10 timeline set for start of intra-Afghan dialogue was missed.