Ukraine considers postponing elections after martial law ends Former commander-in-chief remains silent on presidential bid

Ukrainian authorities are exploring the possibility of amending current legislation to delay elections following the end of martial law, citing the need for more time to prepare for a post-war electoral process.

Chairman of Ukraine's Central Election Commission (CEC), Oleh Didenko, revealed that under current law, parliamentary and presidential elections must be announced within a month after martial law is lifted, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

However, Didenko indicated that the necessary preparations could take longer than the legally prescribed time frame, emphasizing the challenges of organizing free and fair elections in the aftermath of ongoing hostilities.

"As it stands, the law requires the CEC to announce parliamentary elections within a month of martial law ending, with the election process itself lasting 60 days. For presidential elections, the Verkhovna Rada must decide on their appointment within a month, with a 90-day electoral process," Didenko explained.

"Given the current situation, there is widespread consensus among both the public and politicians that more time will be needed to prepare elections than what is currently mandated by law."

Didenko also highlighted the unique challenges posed by the war, noting that the electoral laws will need to be adjusted to address the post-war context. "We need much more time to prepare post-war elections. There are many issues to address, including the adoption of a law on the peculiarities of post-war elections. Once this law is adopted, we can discuss specific timelines more accurately," he said.

Meanwhile, amid speculation about the upcoming presidential election, former commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and current ambassador to the UK, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, has refused to comment on the possibility of running for president.

Responding to a request from media, Zaluzhnyi reiterated his position, saying, "My answer on this matter has not changed. While the war is ongoing, we all need to focus on our work and not think about elections. I do not comment on various rumors."  

By Vafa Guliyeva