Express & Star

Ukraine’s president-elect to be sworn in next week

Volodymyr Zelenskiy, a popular comedian, has said he will seek parliamentary elections after taking office.

Published
Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskiy

Ukraine’s parliament has voted to swear the new president into office next week, opening the possibility of a snap parliamentary election.

The Supreme Rada voted overwhelmingly to set the date for Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s inauguration for May 20.

Mr Zelenskiy, a popular comedian with no political experience, has said that he will seek an election as the current parliament in his opinion has lost people’s trust.

Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskiy
President-elect Volodymyr Zelenskiy, back centre, speaks with Ukrainian Rabbis (AP)

The inauguration next Monday gives Mr Zelenskiy a window of seven days to disband parliament early.

Otherwise, the parliament will complete its term that runs out in November.

Mr Zelenskiy beat the incumbent president at the run-off last month, winning 73% of the vote.

Sorry, we are not accepting comments on this article.