Vladimir Putin is officially back as Russian President.<br/> <br />The elections commission announced that Putin had secured nearly 64 percent of the popular vote.<br/> <br />His closest opponent from the communist party won just 17 percent.<br/> <br />Some congratulated the president on his new post and said the latest elections were fair and transparent.<br/> <br />But not everyone was as happy with the news.<br/> <br />In eastern Russia, voters accuse the president of buying his office.<br/> <br />Analysts say that Putin could continue to face a stronger opposition as anti-government protests that began last year grow.<br/> <br />Many see the ruling United Russia Party as an obstacle to modernization and economic growth.<br/> <br />However, the strong win will likely give the government much-needed legitimacy for the time being.<br/> <br />Elections observers are set to make their initial report on violations Monday afternoon.<br/> <br />Jessica Gray, Reuters
