Petro Poroshenko: We will not allow elections to be falsified

During a special broadcast on the TV channels “Pryamiy” and “Channel 5”, Petro Poroshenko explained why elections are impossible during martial law.

“No elections during the martial law regime. Martial law is designed to restrict the constitutional rights and freedoms of citizens. And during martial law, it is impossible to ensure the free expression of citizens’ will. Which means that the elections will not meet European Union standards as we move forward,” Poroshenko explained.

“There is no need to fantasize now about who and when will announce elections. We must ensure a ceasefire. A ceasefire necessarily entails the termination of martial law. The termination of martial law is guaranteed to entail the immediate announcement of parliamentary elections in 60 days. Because back in 2023, the powers of the parliament expired. And presidential elections in 90 days, because back in 2024, in May, almost two years ago, presidential powers expired. Moreover, presidential powers are not subject to extension. The Constitution clearly states this. And therefore, hold parliamentary elections, hold presidential elections in 30 days. Ensure the presence of observers. And this will be a powerful democratic step,” he insisted.

“We will not allow the elections to be rigged,” the opposition leader warned.

“And secondly. In no case do not try to combine the elections with a referendum. Because, firstly, a referendum is constitutionally prohibited from being held on issues of territorial organization, state sovereignty and territorial integrity. So do not violate the Constitution. No one recognizes this. And secondly, do not try to use the referendum as a PR tool, go out to the people and say: “Friends, are you for peace? Are you for the country to be in the European Union now? Vote for the current government and you will have everything.” This is a lie. This is manipulation. This is IPSO. And this is dishonest,” Poroshenko emphasized.

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