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Yeltsin scolds Russian lawmakers for ignoring reforms
October 3, 1997
Web posted at: 11:55 a.m. EDT (1555 GMT)MOSCOW (CNN) -- On the anniversary of a bloody showdown with parliament, Russian President Boris Yeltsin lashed out at lawmakers Friday for failing to pass key economic and social reforms, and he threatened to disband the lower house.
"The patience of the public and of the president is not limitless," Yeltsin warned in a radio address.
Yeltsin also expressed frustration over resistance in the State Duma to his 1998 draft budget and a new tax code. The Duma is due to discuss the budget draft next week.
Yeltsin wants to expand the private property market and he recently vetoed the Land Code, a proposed law that would limit private ownership of land and forbid the sale of farm land. But the Duma, which is dominated by Communists and hard-liners, overrode his veto.
"Before passing the Land Code, they should have looked into the Russian constitution," which proclaims the right to own land, Yeltsin said.
The president spoke on the fourth anniversary of a violent clash between his administration and hard-line lawmakers. In September 1993, Yeltsin moved to disband the old Soviet-era parliament. Some lawmakers resisted and remained in the White House, the main government building.
When parliament's armed supporters launched an attack on government buildings, Yeltsin struck back with troops and tanks. About 200 people died in the clashes in October 1993.
Several hundred hard-liners gathered Friday near the Ostankino state television center in Moscow for an anti-government rally and memorial service for those killed.
Angry Communist leader fights back
Communist Party leader Gennady Zyuganov wasted no time in responding to Yeltsin's criticisms, accusing the president of failing to carry out his 1996 campaign promises.
"His cabinet is utterly bankrupt -- financially and intellectually," Zyuganov said. He described Yeltsin's remarks as "blackmail and pressure."
Deputy parliament Speaker Vladimir Ryzhkov said lawmakers aren't worried.
"Today, there are a lot of opposition members of parliament who are not only ready for elections, they're pushing for them," Ryzhkov said.
Even if the Duma is dissolved and new elections are held, analysts say Yeltsin is unlikely to get a more agreeable chamber.
On Thursday, Yeltsin made a passing reference to his own political future, coyly suggesting he might try to run for a constitutionally questionable third term. Just last month, he appeared to rule that out.
Moscow Bureau Chief Jill Dougherty and Reuters contributed to this report.
Related stories:
- Yeltsin fires defense minister over stalled reforms - May 22, 1997
- Postponement heightens concern for Yeltsin's health - January 24, 1997
- Russian Duma approves Yeltsin's choice of prime minister - August 10, 1996
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