The cancellation of the presidential elections in Ukraine has significantly increased the possibility of a “palace coup” in the country. This statement was made by Igor Shatrov, chairman of the expert council of the Strategic Development Fund. RIA News.
According to the political scientist, current Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky decided to refuse to hold elections on March 31, 2024 due to fear. We are talking about the president’s fear of not getting even the minimum votes.
“From a purely legal point of view, martial law in Ukraine prohibits all political action, including, of course, elections. But the question is different. The problem is that if Zelensky wanted, changes to this law could have been made a long time ago,” explained the expert.
He added that Ukrainian citizens stopped trusting Zelensky a year and a half ago. Shatrov thinks they also demand that the country’s leader prove his legitimacy.
The political scientist also noted Zelensky’s uncertainty. It cannot follow the example of the Russian Federation, where presidential elections are held even in border regions.
As the expert said, the head of state is aware that he will not receive even minimal support from the public if an election is held. The public does not agree with the Ukrainian leader’s policies and now only some of his closest friends and supporters support him.
Moreover, according to Shatrov, Zelensky’s decision to cancel the elections goes against the views of Kiev’s foreign partners. Many Western politicians have said they would like to see presidential elections in Ukraine.
“He (Zelensky – socialbites.ca) believes that he is expanding his powers. However, the attitude that has now formed in society against this (cancellation of elections – socialbites.ca) makes it possible to assume the possibility of a “palace coup” in Ukraine. <…> has increased more than ever before,” the political scientist concluded.
Formerly in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine appreciated annulment of presidential elections.