Zelensky says now is not the right time for elections in Ukraine.
OAN’s Elizabeth Volberding
4:25 PM – Tuesday, November 7, 2023
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that it is “not the right time for elections” in Ukraine in the midst of the ongoing war against Russia. His comment comes as his five-year presidential term is coming to an end.
On Monday, Zelensky made an announcement in a video where he claimed that Ukraine should not have to “deal with” the upcoming elections, as the country is continuing to repel Russia, which raided Ukraine in February 2022.
The Ukrainian president said that presidential elections should not be held in the country in 2024, claiming that it would be “irresponsible” to do so due to the continuing war.
“We all understand that now, in wartime, when there are many challenges, it is utterly irresponsible to engage in topics related to an election in such a frivolous manner,” Zelensky said in his video address to Ukraine on Monday.
Prior to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Ukraine’s presidential elections were originally planned for March 2024. However, the nation’s constitution orders that it cannot go ahead with the elections until any declaration of martial law is lifted, which is doubtful to occur. The country was scheduled to hold a parliamentary election in October.
Martial law refers to the suspension of an ordinary law, which is administered by the military.
In Ukraine, martial law is scheduled to end on November 15th.
Zelensky initially mandated martial law on February 24th, 2022, which is also the day that Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated an invasion on Ukraine.
“We need to recognize that this is a time for defense, a time for battle, upon which the fate of the state and its people depend… I believe that elections are not appropriate at this time,” Zelensky claimed.
Additionally, Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council Secretary Alexey Danilov announced that “no elections can be held” due to the martial law in place in the country.
Previous to Zelensky’s announcement, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba made a statement during an online appearance at the World Policy Conference in the United Arab Emirates saying that the Ukrainian president was “weighing the pros and cons” of racing in the election next year.
“We are not closing this page. The president of Ukraine is considering and weighing the different pros and cons,” said Kuleba.
“And finally, the waves of any politically divisive things must stop,” he said Monday. “We must realize that now is the time of defense, the time of the battle that determines the fate of the state and people, not the time of manipulations, which only Russia expects from Ukraine. I believe that now is not the right time for elections.”
“And if we need to put an end to a political dispute and continue to work in unity, there are structures in the state that are capable of putting an end to it and giving society all the necessary answers. So that there is no room left for conflicts and someone else’s game against Ukraine,” he said.
Olena Zelenska, the first lady of Ukraine, stated in September that she was “unsure” if her husband would seek re-election in 2024. She added that whether or not he decided to run for a second term, it would depend on the nation’s capacity to set up a “free and fair” election.
“It will also depend whether our society would need him as a president, if he will feel that Ukrainian society will no longer wish him to be the president, he will probably not run,” Zelenska said in September. “But I will support him whatever decision he takes.”
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How can the Ukrainian government balance the need for national security with the democratic right of the people to choose their leader?
E upcoming elections, Zelensky emphasized the need to focus on defending the country and its people from the ongoing conflict with Russia. He argued that engaging in election campaigns at this critical time would divert attention and resources away from the war effort.
Zelensky’s statement has sparked a debate among Ukrainians, with some supporting his decision and others criticizing it. Those in favor argue that prioritizing national security over elections is crucial, especially when the country is still facing aggression from Russia. They believe that holding elections while the war is ongoing would be disruptive and potentially weaken the defense efforts.
On the other hand, critics argue that Zelensky’s decision undermines democratic principles and the right of the people to choose their leader. They contend that elections provide an opportunity for change and fresh leadership, which could be vital in navigating the complex challenges Ukraine faces.
Some critics also express concerns about the potential extension of Zelensky’s term beyond the constitutionally mandated five years. They argue that this decision may set a precedent for future leaders to stay in power indefinitely by exploiting similar circumstances.
In response to the criticism, Zelensky reaffirmed his commitment to democratic values but stressed the need for stability and continuity during this time of crisis. He expressed his willingness to step down once the war is resolved and stability is restored.
While the debate continues, it is crucial to acknowledge the unique circumstances Ukraine finds itself in. The ongoing conflict with Russia has placed the country in an unprecedented situation, where it is fighting for its sovereignty and survival. As such, difficult decisions need to be made to prioritize the defense of the nation.
Ultimately, the course of action taken regarding the upcoming elections in Ukraine will have ramifications for the future of the country. It is crucial for Ukrainian leaders and citizens to engage in open and constructive dialogue, considering the complexities and challenges they face. The decision should be made with the best interests of the Ukrainian people and the long-term stability of the nation in mind.
In the meantime, the international community should continue to support Ukraine in its efforts to defend its sovereignty and resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia. Diplomatic negotiations, economic assistance, and humanitarian aid are all crucial in alleviating the suffering of the Ukrainian people and promoting a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
As Ukraine navigates this critical period in its history, it is essential for its leaders to balance the urgency of the war with the democratic principles that underpin the nation. Finding a solution that ensures the well-being and security of the Ukrainian people while upholding democratic values will be paramount in shaping the future of the country.
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