The former president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, continues reforming Ukraine’s government by sacking more ministers and repositioning other officials. Whether this reorganization aims to strengthen the government and Ukraine’s daily operations raises doubts about the underlying motives.
It wasn’t the first time that Zelensky used his executive powers to eliminate some of his competitors in forthcoming presidential elections, assuming there would be some soon. With the constant reintroduction of martial law, the election is pushed further into the uncertain future.
Whether Ukraine will one day see a new resident in the presidential palace remains to be seen, as the circle around the former president in Ukraine’s government seems to strengthen its powers over governing Ukraine.
But who are some of the ministers and other repositioned officials who got either sacked, forced to resign, or repositioned?
One of the prominent figures sacked was Rostyslav Shurma, the Deputy head of the president’s office. He has held his position since November 2021 and has a background in economics and positions in various companies, including CEO of the Zaporizhstal plant from 2012 to 2019. Despite his prominent career and achievements, he was dismissed by presidential decree on September 3, 2024, for his involvement in a scandal concerning government payments to solar plants.
Other resigning ministers include Strategic Industries Minister Oleksandr Kamyshin, Justice Minister Denys Maliuska, Environment Minister Ruslan Strilets, and Olha Stefanishyna, deputy prime minister responsible for European integration. Some will undoubtedly resume their duties in other government roles, while the rest might seek employment in the private sector.
In early 2024, at least five portfolios in Ukraine’s government became vacant as some ministers were dismissed or forced to resign. Political meddling with ministerial posts has undoubtedly become part of Ukraine’s political power struggle and reconstruction. Whatever the result, the reshuffling adds uncertainty around the government and its political stability.
In February 2024, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, was dismissed even though he played a significant role in defending Ukraine against the Russian invasion. Significant tensions between the commander and Volodymyr Zelensky led to his dismissal and appointment as the ambassador to the UK in March 2024. Since then, Zaluzhnyi has become a prominent contender for Ukraine’s presidency.
While the people await the next presidential elections, some prominent politicians have emerged among the ranks of its political elite. Thus far, only two have formally announced their intent to run: Oleksii Arestovich and Petro Poroshenko. Both candidates have vast political experience and have held positions in running state affairs.
Some may speculate whether the former Commander-in-Chief, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, will be available for the presidency as he is pushed aside to handle the ambassador’s duties in the UK.
Volodymyr Zelensky’s bid for the second term remains uncertain. He will face a backlash, as by 2024, he has failed to push the occupation forces out of Ukraine and reclaim the occupied areas. The stalemate in the east does little to promote trust among Ukrainians in the former president as a capable leader, as Ukrainians eagerly await peace.
Whatever awaits Ukraine, some might cast doubt on Ukraine’s future as a democratic multi-party nation.