Today at 17:05
Ukraine’s second-round presidential election run-off is less than two weeks away and tens of millions of voters will choose between two candidates.
The first is the incumbent, President Petro Poroshenko, praised for his role in securing the visa-free regime with the European Union, gaining independence for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, and successfully representing Ukraine internationally amid Russia’s war, but perceived to be weak on anti-corruption reforms and limiting private interests in the executive and judiciary.
The second is Volodymyr Zelenskiy, a political novice and household showbiz name, whose popularity has been powered more by personality, promise and protest against the establishment – than concrete policy. Zelenskiy’s unconventional campaign – featuring videos layered with special effects and a powerful social media drive – has laid the ground for one of the most unpredictable elections in modern Ukrainian history. His links to billionaire businessman Ihor Kolomoyskyi, the mockery of Ukrainian politics in his Studio Kvartal 95’show in recent years and his dealings with Andrey Palchevskiy who recently lauded a possible reset of Ukrainian-Russian relations on Kremlin state TV, has done little to damage his ratings. The next few days will be crucial to see if that changes.
So let’s give you a recap of the latest developments. Petro Poroshenko proposed this Sunday – that Zelenskiy participate in a stadium debate on April 14.
“On April 14, next Sunday, at the Olympiyskiy Stadium, exactly where Mr. Zelensky proposed, I’m waiting for him to hold a debate. I think 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. will be the best time. I invite the audience and all TV channels for the debate to be held in a place and a time that Volodymyr Zelensky wanted,” Poroshenko said.
On Monday – Zelenskiy responded, proposing April 19 instead – the Friday before the election date. The head of the Petro Poroshenko Bloc penciled in both April 14 and April 19.
The question now is – will Zelenskiy risk losing his political momentum when scrutinized live on national TV by Mr. Poroshenko and journalists, in front of millions of undecided voters watching? We’ll have to wait and see.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Central Election Commission ruled that only a debate hosted by Ukraine’s public broadcaster could be considered the official one, according to the law. While details of public debates are ironed out, it’s important not to forget the much wider geopolitical implications the election could have.
Unsurprising, Russia and especially state-controlled TV is paying close attention. On Sunday night’s prime time “News of the Week Show” aired on Russia 24, Zelenskiy was given more positive coverage than Poroshenko.
“Unlike Poroshenko, Volodymyr Zelenskyi is not egocentric, and that’s why he’s capable of self-irony…” a host said.
Zelenskiy certainly appeals to younger voters – dissatisfied with the ruling elite and mostly disenchanted with politics altogether. The character he plays in his “Servant of the People” series – a history teacher turned president – Vasyl Holoborodko – is widely viewed as a pragmatic, charismatic, and an all-around good guy.
Whether these positive characteristics in a fictional TV series will help Zelenskiy get real votes – or if the electorate will choose the experience and stability Mr. Poroshenko offers – is anyone’s guess.
