Political Deadlock in Ukraine - 2002-09-24

In the city of Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, thousands have protested against the government in front of the parliament. This is the second demonstration against Leonid Kuchma, the country's president, within a week. Opponents of Mr. Kuchma are calling for his resignation and new elections. They argue that to overcome the current political and parliamentary deadlock, the president's resignation and new elections are necessary. Although the opponents received the most votes in the parliamentary elections in March, the parliament is not under their control. Last week, tens of thousands also took to the streets in Kyiv and other cities in Ukraine demanding President Kuchma's resignation. Reports indicate that Mr. Kuchma has refused to meet with opposition representatives in parliament. At least 50 representatives have gone on a hunger strike at the presidential office, stating that the strike will continue until Mr. Kuchma meets with them. The opponents attempted to impeach Mr. Kuchma, but their proposal did not receive enough votes. They accuse Mr. Kuchma of corruption and involvement in the murder of an opposition journalist. The president denies the allegations.