The Kremlin is looking for a new head of Chechnya due to Kadyrov's illness
Ramzan Kadyrov's kidneys have failed, reports Ukrinform citing sources in Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR). The Chechen leader is likely to be in his own hospital in the republic. Members of his family clan, including those from other countries, have come to visit him.
Immediately after Kadyrov's health deteriorated, the Kremlin intensified the process of selecting a candidate for the new leader of Chechnya.
Potential successors
According to sources, he is among the most likely candidates:
Magomed Daudov - Chairman of the Chechen Parliament;
Apti Alaudinov - former commander of the Sever battalion and a close associate of Kadyrov;
Akhmat Kadyrov - Ramzan Kadyrov's eldest son.
So far, there have been no official statements from the Kremlin on the possible appointment. Sources say that the process of identifying a successor is being carried out quickly because of Chechnya's strategic importance to the Russian government.
Context.
Ramzan Kadyrov has been the leader of Chechnya since 2007. His rule is characterised by tight control over the republic and active support for the Kremlin's policies. The health situation of the republic's leader could lead to significant political reshuffling in the region and a change in the balance of power among Chechen elites.
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