Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is facing renewed pressure to conduct elections during wartime, despite the constitutional restriction on holding elections under martial law.
Zelenskyy, who assumed office in 2019, is urged to proceed with elections by Mykhailo Fedorov, the former defense minister known for his popularity among the public. Fedorov emphasizes the importance of finding a viable mechanism to ensure Ukraine’s democratic process continues amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.
While some argue that holding elections is currently impractical due to the ongoing war that began in February 2022, the calls for change present a significant political challenge that Zelenskyy may not be able to overlook.
Tymofiy Mylovanov, a former government minister, noted that Fedorov’s push for elections has sparked domestic political debate but has not necessarily expedited the likelihood of imminent elections. He speculates that Zelenskyy might announce plans for elections in the future in response to persistent protests.
Fedorov, a prominent figure known for his reformist stance and technological expertise, previously served as Ukraine’s digital transformation minister and advocated for drone warfare against Russia. His dismissal in July led to widespread protests demanding his reinstatement, but Zelenskyy appointed Yevhenii Khmara as the new defense minister, a decision formalized by lawmakers.
Concerns have been raised about the feasibility of holding elections amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. Dmytro Koziatynskyi, a combat medic, expressed doubts about the logistical challenges of facilitating voting for deployed service members. Similarly, Lesia Bidochko of the European Policy Institute in Kyiv questions the practicality of organizing elections with millions of Ukrainians displaced or serving in the military.
Notably, Ukrainian lawmakers, including Lesia Vasylenko, consider the current circumstances unsuitable for holding elections, citing the complexity of constitutional changes required. Orysia Lutsevych of Chatham House warned that pushing for wartime elections could jeopardize national unity and leave room for Russian interference.
President Zelenskyy has yet to directly address Fedorov’s election proposal, with his communications adviser emphasizing the ongoing security challenges posed by Russia. The debate over wartime elections continues to be a contentious issue, with potential implications for Ukraine’s future stability and relations with Russia.
