­Politics is usually known for its dull shades, but in Russia it has a tinge more color.

Wrapped in scandal, corruption and a bygone form of governance, it’s fun to watch. Sometimes more surreal than serious, nonetheless it certainly entices… and this year it’s all got a bit more eye-catching.

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin earlier unveiled his grand scheme to revitalize his ruling party – United Russia – from the gray it’s become, to something more attractive.

Laden with images of bureaucracy and festering politicians, his idea has been to thrust it into the limelight. The venture all comes in the form of the presumptuously titled “All-Russian Popular Front”. An amalgamation of NGO’s, interest groups and friendly businesses, its devotees are loyal to the party but, crucially, not all members.

Shining further light on the process, in August United Russia held primaries to decide candidates ahead of December’s parliamentary elections. It’s here where the party’s colors should be tinged with a shade of cautionary yellow.

Few if any parties give away power, but here they’re claiming to do just that. One hundred and fifty of United Russia’s seats in the Duma this year are up for grabs, all for those who are linked, but not tied to, the party.

The party line is to bring in young, fresh-faced lawmakers who can shake things up. It all sounds better than it likely is.

Staring deeper into proceedings things get slightly murkier. Running MP’s have admitted the people’s vote will only influence rather than decide who’s on the ballot paper. That’s a decision to be taken by the party itself over the next few days at its’ pre-election congress.

Whether Mr Putin’s recent revitalization project is more than a skin dip beautification exercise can only be answered after the list of candidates is announced.

Even then it will take time to see if it still doesn’t all blend into something similar to the old gray of the past establishment.

But as for color changes: overall many voters would no doubt prefer slightly more transparency, rather than being left in the dark.

­The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of RT.