Russia's outgoing President Vladimir Putin was unanimously elected chairman of United Russia party (Yedinaya Rossiya). He also confirmed the intention to head the government after resigning his commission to Dmitry Medvedev.

However, Vladimir Putin likewise Dmitry Medvedev rejected the proposal to join the party.

"As I have already said, being member of a political party is unbecoming to a head of state," Mr Putin said.

United Russia's new regulations allow a non-partisan citizen to assume chairmanship. Boris Gryzlov, currently the party's chairman, will retain the office of supreme council's chairman.