After the end of the war, it will take more time to organize elections in Ukraine than for a normal election process. In addition, by the time of the vote, it will be necessary to resolve a number of complex issues related to the expression of will in the de-occupied regions, abroad, etc. About this stated Chairman of the Central Election Commission Oleg Didenko.
“Current legislation provides algorithms for how elections should be conducted after the end of martial law. But due to the impact of a full-scale war, we need to adjust those procedures. Now there seems to be a consensus in society and among politicians that the preparation of elections after the end of martial law requires a longer period of time than that specified by law.” Didenko explained.
He noted that conducting elections under the current law will require changes, because according to current regulations, the Central Election Commission must announce elections within a month after the end of martial law. In the case of parliamentary elections, the election process lasts 60 days, presidential elections – 90 days.
“Is this month enough to prepare for the elections? If we are talking about a vote that will be democratic and meet the standards, then probably not. Everyone understands that.” Didenko stressed.
He reminded that currently the legislation provides for parliamentary elections to be held first, and then presidential elections, although certain exceptions are possible. The head of the CEC refrained from making assumptions about the specific terms necessary for the preparation of the campaign, because this raises many additional questions – what kind of election is meant, whether there is funding for it, what is the security situation, whether voting abroad is possible, and what is the state of the electoral infrastructure.
“I never name a specific date: the more time there is, the better it is possible to organize the election process, the less time – the worse, accordingly.”Didenko stressed.
