Yeltsin no Reformer in Ukraine

The expressed desire by the Russian President to back his colleague Leonid Kuchma in the upcoming election in Ukraine became known the day after the Reforms and Order Party (ROP) made public their intent to support Viktor Yushchenko, current Head of the National Bank of Ukraine, for President.

After this, the most zealous Ukrainian reformers may not expect the consent of Mr. Yushchenko and most likely no consent will be given. Because the ROP leaders themselves linked Mr. Yushenko's nomination to such an "insignificant" condition as refusal of President Kuchma to run for election to another term.

Boris Yeltsin most likely did not think that in declaring support for his Ukrainian colleague that he was creating problems to the very reform wing of the Ukrainian establishment on their way to power. Perhaps he did not even mean to put up strong opposition to Kuchma's rivals. On the eve of the informal meeting with Leonid Kuchma they found the only right, purely psychological method to get him to promise anything in exchange for support in retaining power, and, most importantly, to bind him up those promises and that support.

Interestingly, the next day after publication of this photograph in our newspaper National Bank head Viktor Yushchenko received a "completely unexpected" request from his "long-time and good friends" in the Reforms and Order Party that he declare his candidacy for the presidency of Ukraine. Mr. Yushchenko responded that such an announcement would be premature and that his post precluded his running for political office or being member of a political party.

Meanwhile he stated that the reputable and authoritative economists in the Reforms and Order Party "must be supported by a major representation in parliament. He added that he believes it important to support President Kuchma.

The National Bank press service requested the widest possible publicity of the request. Is our President also so nervous about the appearance of another candidate for his job?

Photo by Yevhen Savilov:
"Do you know, Viktor, what could happen if you have your own political image built?"