‘Zelensky’s refusal to hold presidential elections is the path to power usurpation and dictatorship in the country’, – says former MP Mosiychuk

On March 31, 2024, the constitutional term of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky’s authority will expire. On this day, Ukraine must decide which path our state will take further: democracy or usurpation, and consequently, tyranny like Russia and Belarus.

This statement was made by former MP Igor Mosiychuk.

He noted that if Ukraine is moving towards the path of democracy, then according to the Constitution, presidential elections should be scheduled. If it is impossible to conduct them, Zelensky should transfer his powers to the parliament.

“The Constitution of Ukraine clearly stipulates that in case of the expiration of the term of powers of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine during the state of war or a state of emergency, its powers are extended until the first session of the VRU elected after the cancellation of the state of war or emergency. For the President of Ukraine, such an opportunity is not provided by the Constitution,” Mosiychuk reminded.

He emphasized that this provision in the constitution is a safeguard against the usurpation of power by the President.

“This is not accidental. It is a safeguard against the usurpation of power by the person holding the position of the President of Ukraine. Because the usurpation by a collegial representative supreme legislative body is practically impossible. Accordingly, in fulfillment of the above provisions of the Constitution of Ukraine, authorities and officials are obliged to take actions aimed at preparing for elections and their appointment. This includes the Parliament, the Government, and the Central Election Commission. Failure to take such actions, or actions aimed at justifying the non-appointment and holding of presidential elections, or hindering such conduct directly or through inaction, constitutes a usurpation of power and falls under the qualification of Article 109 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine – actions aimed at the violent change or overthrow of the constitutional order or the seizure of state power. Namely: Actions committed with the aim of forcibly changing or overthrowing the constitutional order or seizing state power, as well as conspiracy to commit such actions, are punishable by imprisonment for a term of five to ten years with or without confiscation of property,” stated the former MP.

Recall that earlier in an interview with the British channel Channel 4 News, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he is allegedly ready to hold elections during a state of war, but there is a condition: a change in circumstances and the law.

According to Zelensky, elections will take place if it is possible to overcome the obstacles that hinder voting in the conditions of war.