Gorby, Powell worry changes will hit reforms

‘‘We have concerns about it and we want to discuss them with the Russians.’’ At the emergency session of the Russian Cabinet yesterday, Putin proposed to do away with the direct election of the governors of the federation’s 89 regions and their nomination by the federal President and subsequent approval by local legislature.

Other critics accused Putin of exploiting the grisly Beslan school siege, in which at least 327 hostages died, to amass power.

‘‘We understand the need to fight against terrorism … but in an attempt to go after terrorists I think one has to strike a proper balance to make sure that you don’t move in a direction that takes you away from the democratic reforms or the democratic process,’’ Powell said.

Putin last week rejected talks with rebels and taunted Washington by saying: ‘‘Why don’t you meet Osama bin Laden, invite him to Brussels or to the White House and engage in talks, ask him what he wants and give it to him so he leaves you in peace?’’

‘‘Will these changes strengthen reforms in the country? I believe they will weaken our country,’’ Vladimir Ryzhkov, an Independent member of the Duma said.

‘‘Instead of electing authoritative governors, the President proposes the appointment of 89 puppets and putting Parliament into the hands of puppet parties with no trust among voters.’’