"Let us be realistic about it - I don't remember a single bill passed without such teamwork," he stressed to a conference of his regional counterparts today.
One of those who stood at the cradle of the reformist political party Yabloko, Mr. Lukin was appointed Ombudsman on President Vladimir Putin's initiative last month. Today, he met regional Ombudsmen for a first-ever time.
Only 25 Russian regions have Ombudsmen for now. Their appointment is at regional administrative disposal, and Mr. Lukin is determined to promote new legislation that will make the office elective.
Russia is to retain and enhance its democratic basis. Vladimir Putin said so immediately after he learned about his victory in last Sunday's election, which brought him another presidential term. The statement was of tremendous importance, and made Mr. Lukin optimistic. He looks forward to upcoming serious moves, he said.
