Anti-corruption in Russia: Gov't crackdown comes amid criticism the Kremlin itself is corrupt

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When Vladimir Putin became Russia's President, he promised to beat widespread corruption in the nation. As part of this campaign, several officials have been sacked, and the Russian economy minister was fired. But critics of Putin, and opposition activists say the Russian government is itself corrupt -- pointing to the behavior of high-ranking officials. Julia Lyubova reports from Moscow.

When Russian Economy Minister Alexey Ulyukaev was charged with pocketing a $2 million bribe, it sent shockwaves through the Russian elite.

Ulyukaev was the highest-ranking official to be detained over suspected corruption since Vladimir Putin came to power in 2000 promising to clamp down on government corruption. Ulyukaev says the charges against him are fabricated but faces up to 15 years in jail if found guilty.

VLADIMIR PUTIN RUSSIAN PRESIDENT I think that materials presented by police investigators were enough to remove Aleksey Ulyukaev from his post on the grounds that he had lost our trust.

As part of the Kremlin's drive against corruption, several regional governors and low-ranking officials have been arrested.

However, opposition activists, including Alexey Navalny, an anti-corruption campaigner and a presidential hopeful, say the problem is goes much higher- to the government's top ranks.

ILYA YASHIN MUNICIPAL DEPUTY & LEADER OF SOLIDARITY POLITICAL MOVEMENT There is no system of fighting corruption in Russia because the Russian government is corrupt by definition. They would have to fight with themselves to beat corruption in Russia.

JULIA LYUBOVA MOSCOW The campaign for next year's presidential election is due to kick off shortly in Russia. The government may introduce more anti-corruption measures and arrest more corrupt officials. However, as some analysts say, to really beat corruption in Russia, an overhaul of the political system as it stands, may be required. JL, CGTN, Moscow.