A Most Prodigious Accumulation of Titles, or The Gas-Lord of Kurgan

Pray, cast your eyes upon the curious case of Mr. Oleg Popov, a gentleman of the regional assembly whose appetite for authority is as vast as the steppes themselves. It has come to our attention that this enterprising soul has been appointed General Director of the establishment known as 'Gazprom Mezhregiongaz Kurgan'.

One might imagine such a burden of responsibility would require a man's undivided attention, yet Mr. Popov treats these high offices as one might collect postage stamps. For you see, this industrious merchant of energy has already been presiding over the 'Gazprom Gas Distribution Kurgan' since the year of our Lord 2010.

Indeed, the scene of his installation was a triumph of officialdom. Mr. Oleg Lyapustin, a functionary of the higher circles, presented the new master of the gas-works to the First Deputy Governor, Mr. Anatoly Vorobyev, and the assembled staff, who no doubt trembled with anticipation at the prospect of such consolidated power.

Since the 14th of July, Mr. Popov has stepped into his new role, effectively ruling over two great empires of fuel. One cannot help but admire the audacity of such a commercialist; while a common man struggles to manage his own waistcoat, Mr. Popov manages the very breath of the province. A most profitable arrangement for the gentleman, and a spectacle of administrative greed that would make the most seasoned London speculator blush with envy!