Lytvyn on his alleged complicity in Gongadze murder. Photo

December03200919:45

Speaking in a press conference in Lviv Dec. 3, Speaker Volodymyr Lytvyn said, answering a question on his involvement in the murder of investigative journalist Gongadze, that his only guilt was that he worked in Kuchma’s presidential administration.

I hope the truth will be finally established, Lytvyn said.

An influx of smearing information happens as soon as his approval ratings begin to climb, Lytvyn explained.

Lytvyn didn’t rule out that the presidential election law may be changed after the first round – to match it to the interests of leading political players.

Lytvyn opts for adopting a new presidential election law which incorporated the recommendations of the Constitutional Court and the Venice Commission.

If he becomes president, he will nominate his colleague Serhy Hrynevetsky for premier. As to a new speaker, he should represent VR’s largest faction, although “449 persons can well be VR’s next speaker”[VR has 450 lawmakers], Lytvyn said.

He also proposed to adopt the law banning lawmakers to run for parliament the second time.

According to Lytvyn, Ukraine will be in for a rough ride after the election, as economic situation is very serious. The $14 billion of the IMF loans have been funneled from Ukraine, with most of the money finding its way to the offshore bonanza Cyprus.

Tonight, Lytvyn will be questioned by journalists about his attitude to Russia. He will take part in a live Speaking Straightly TV program on Lviv television. The talk will focus on such issues as presidential candidates’ agendas towards Russia,
how will pro-Russian candidates repay Russia’s support for them, the degree of danger posed by foreign interest in the election in Ukraine, Black Sea Fleet future, the status of Russia and entry in NATO.

Comments

21:1903.12.09 Democratic foundation
- Lytvyn will not be elected president he has only 4.5 support. The Prime Minister is elected by the Parliament not the President.
  
  Lytvyn supports will not have a say in who progresses to the second round.
  
  Under uKraine flawed two round first past the post voting system only the tow highest polling candidates can progress to the second run-off ballot.
  
  A vote for Lytvyn and other minor candidates is a wasted vote.