Ukrainian Parliament Hits Record Low in Number of Deputies
Date: 2023-12-08 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: POLICY
Parliamentary Shake-up: What Happened?
The Ukrainian Parliament, known as the Verkhovna Rada, recently witnessed a pivotal vote resulting in the cessation of mandates for three Ukrainian deputies: Maxim Yefimov ("Revival of Ukraine" group), Dmytro Shpenov (independent), and Vitaliy Danilov ("Batkivshchyna" faction).
Reasons for Resignation
The decision to prematurely terminate Danilov's mandate received approval from 291 deputies. Danilov's departure from the "Batkivshchyna" faction prompted the relinquishing of his mandate, leading to the entry of the next candidate on the party list.
Shrinking Numbers
Yefimov, part of the "Revival of Ukraine" group formed after the prohibition of the party, received a vote of 283 deputies for the early termination of his mandate. His departure also resulted in a reduced parliamentary count due to the unfeasibility of holding elections in conflict-affected areas.
Impact on Parliament
Previously, the parliament comprised 403 deputies, but due to the impossibility of holding elections for certain constituencies, the current count has dwindled to an unprecedentedly low figure of 401.
Political Ramifications
These resignations are crucial in a time of heightened political dynamics. Yefimov cited the ongoing conflict with Russia as a reason to refocus efforts on local affairs, especially in Kramatorsk, Donetsk. Meanwhile, Danilov, a prominent figure in the "Batkivshchyna" party, had held significant positions in Ukrainian football.
Past Records and Controversies
Danilov had signed an appeal to discuss the removal of deputies affiliated with banned pro-Russian parties. Shpenov, previously associated with the "Party of Regions," had been involved in previous parliamentary controversies related to proxy voting.
Constitutional Background
According to the Ukrainian Constitution, the parliament should consist of 450 deputies. However, due to the annexation of Crimea and parts of Donetsk and Luhansk, the current assembly of the 9th convocation has only 424 deputies.
