Putin cronies exposed in new list of Russia's rich

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Independent
By Andrew Osborn in Moscow
09 February 2005


Russia's political class has amassed as much wealth as power under President Vladimir Putin, according to a new "rich list" published yesterday.

In revelations which will outrage many pensioners, who have recently campaigned against welfare cuts, Finance magazine reported that three regional presidents, 20 MPs, 11 senators, a regional governor and a deputy regional governor were among the country's 468 wealthiest individuals.

Five of the men were classed as dollar billionaires. With a cool $11.5bn (£6.2bn) to his name, Roman Abramovich (who is also governor of Russia's Chukotka region) was crowned the country's wealthiest political mover and shaker.

Though he was the only household name on the list - at least outside Russia - his political role turns out to be far from uncommon. Valery Oif, much of whose money is derived from Mr Abramovich's oil firm Sibneft, was listed as the 24th richest person and was said to be worth $1.68bn. He is a senator in the country's Federation Council.

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