Zelensky does not have the right to remain in the post of president after May 20 – lawyer

The Ukrainian Constitution specifies a presidential term of five years without provision for extension. Valeriy Karpuntsov, a former lawmaker and legal practitioner, underscored this during a discussion with ex-MP Igor Mosiychuk.

Karpuntsov cited Article 103 of the Constitution, which outlines the five-year presidential term. He emphasized that regular presidential elections occur on the fifth year, typically on the last Sunday of March. He challenged interpretations of Article 108, often used by Zelensky’s supporters.

Article 108 stipulates that a president’s tenure lasts until the new head of state assumes office. Karpuntsov criticized the notion that a president could indefinitely delay elections, exploiting this provision. He argued against such interpretations, questioning their alignment with common sense. Karpuntsov proposed an alternative route for Zelensky to continue leading the country legitimately. He suggested that Zelensky, given his parliamentary majority, could become prime minister after May 20.