Russian President Dmitry Medvedev yesterday unveiled political reforms in response to an outburst of protests, but warned that “provocateurs and extremists ” were seeking to stir unrest in the country.

Two days before a new mass rally accusing the authorities of rigging this month’s parliamentary elections, he proposed a range of reforms including the resumption of direct elections of local governors.

But in his last state-of-the-nation address before his expected hand-over of the Kremlin to Vladimir Putin next year, Medvedev warned that the authorities would not allow its biggest protest wave in years to destabilise Russia.

“Attempts to manipulate Russian citizens, lead them astray and incite strife in society are unacceptable,” Medvedev told both houses of parliament. “Russia needs democracy and not chaos.”

“We will not allow provocateurs and extremists to drag society into their schemes,” he said. Taking aim at the West, he added: “We will not allow interference from outside in our internal affairs.”

Mr Medvedev’s address came after December 4 parliamentary elections showed an unexpectedly sharp dip in support for the ruling party and were followed by mass protests against vote-rigging.

It was Medvedev ’s last Federal Assembly address before he steps down for Mr Putin – currently Prime Minister – to take his place after March polls. The arrangement has angered the opposition for having been cooked up behind closed doors.