Ukraine’s upcoming presidential election, affected by martial law due to Russia’s invasion, raises concerns about safety and legitimacy. Experts argue that holding elections now could endanger lives and compromise sovereignty. U.S. officials have pressured Ukraine to conduct elections, but many Ukrainians, including political leaders, reject the idea, emphasizing that democracy cannot be realized during active conflict.
The upcoming presidential election in Ukraine is a topic of significance, especially in the context of ongoing negotiations for a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, facilitated by the United States. However, experts and officials within Ukraine assert that conducting elections in the near future could pose risks to lives and national sovereignty. Scheduled for March or April 2024, the election has been complicated by martial law, in place since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, which legally prohibits such elections.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for postponing the elections, asserting that his lack of action reflects poorly on Ukraine’s democratic standing. In a social media post, Trump denounced Zelenskyy as a dictator and warned that he must act quickly to prevent losing his country. This sentiment echoes among some U.S. lawmakers and conservative commentators who demand that Ukraine demonstrate its commitment to democracy by organizing elections.
Ukrainian officials, including Senator Josh Hawley, have reinforced calls for elections, arguing that continuing martial law undermines Ukraine’s democratic claims. Representative Victoria Spartz emphasized that failing to hold elections could enable Russia to question the legitimacy of Ukraine’s leadership. Russia has long contested the legitimacy of Ukraine’s government, dating back to 2014.
President Zelenskyy has expressed unwillingness to hold elections without the capacity for all citizens to vote. Highlighting the inability of half the population to participate due to ongoing conflict, he questioned the legitimacy of an election under such circumstances. This sentiment is echoed by key political figures, with a recent poll indicating that 63% of Ukrainians oppose conducting elections at this time.
Ukrainian election experts cite numerous obstacles to ensuring fair elections amidst wartime conditions. According to Yevhenii Radchenko, former deputy chair of the Central Election Commission, conducting elections during hostilities violates international electoral law principles. The ongoing conflict has severely damaged electoral infrastructure, making it unrealistic to guarantee safety during the electoral process.
In a joint statement, multiple Ukrainian NGOs, including OPORA, called for the postponement of elections until peace is achievable. They noted that martial law serves to mobilize society for defense and that Ukraine must prioritize military efforts over elections. Past elections from 2014 to 2022 were conducted under significantly different circumstances than the current situation.
Despite the challenges of organizing elections under martial law, many U.S. Congress members believe the decision for elections should rest with Ukraine. Some representatives emphasize the importance of waiting for a secure environment before proceeding with elections, stressing that democracy should be rooted in safety. Views vary, with historical comparisons to elections held during World War II being deemed inapplicable to Ukraine’s current reality.
The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe has begun preparations to support Ukraine in holding accessible elections once conditions permit. Katya Andrusz emphasized this commitment to ensuring international standards are maintained when elections are possible, highlighting Ukraine’s democratic resilience amid adversity. This development reflects a broader acknowledgment of the complexities surrounding electoral legitimacy during a time of conflict.
In conclusion, the potential for Ukraine to hold its presidential election amid martial law raises significant concerns regarding electoral safety and legitimacy. Ukrainian leaders and experts agree that without peace and the ability for all citizens to vote, elections may undermine rather than uphold democratic principles. While U.S. officials call for elections to reinforce democratic values, the realities of war continue to complicate the situation. Ultimately, the decision to hold elections should prioritize the safety and sovereignty of the Ukrainian people.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
