Ukraine should organize free and fair elections, - PACE president Kox
The President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Tinie Cox, considers it necessary to hold parliamentary and presidential elections in Ukraine even under martial law.
Cox said this in an interview with "Euro Integration", Censor.NET informs.
The PACE President admits that Ukraine is currently under martial law and the constitution does not allow holding elections under these conditions.
"So it's up to you to solve this challenge," Cox said. "It is not our question to indicate how to do it, but of course, Ukraine must organize free and fair elections. Because this is your obligation according to the charter of the Council of Europe. And of course, you will do it," he stressed.
At the same time, the PACE president admitted that the organization of elections will be extremely difficult, however, according to him, there are examples of other countries, in particular, Turkey, which managed to hold elections after a devastating earthquake.
"Winning the war, and surviving this invasion is already an incredible challenge. But to restore, strengthen, and rebuild the country, while observing the rules of democracy, the rule of law, and human rights - this challenge will remain with you for many years to come. But you must overcome this challenge " - says Cox.
"Because if you don't do it, then you yourself will have a question - what did we defend in this war that Russia started against Ukraine?" he asked.
According to him, there are examples of other countries that organized proper voting in elections abroad. In addition, there is a possibility of voting via the Internet.
"There will be no complaints against Ukraine if the elections are not ideal. But if you do not hold elections, then everyone will have questions about you. Democracy is, of course, not only elections. But without elections, democracy is impossible," the PACE president emphasized.
