Decentralization reform close to completion – Razumkov

Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Dmytro Razumkov said this during the talk show Pravo na Vladu (Right to Power) on the 1+1 TV channel on Thursday evening, an Ukrinform correspondent reported.

“There are still many issues that need to be resolved for the elections to be held in a democratic manner, so that they do reflect the will of the Ukrainian people ... The [amendments to] electoral code was adopted today, and funds were allocated for the local elections. There are questions regarding changes in the borders of districts. I think that in the near future these issues will also be raised in the Verkhovna Rada, but all this is a continuation of decentralization. My colleagues agree with some positions and oppose others, but in general, the reform of decentralization is approaching its completion,” Razumkov said.

According to him, local authorities will change significantly, since the Verkhovna Rada’s decision to change the electoral code reduced the proportional system from 90,000 voters to 10,000. “After such a figure, the so-called party lists are formed and this will have a major impact on the outcome of the elections,” Razumkov said.

As Ukrinform reported, at a meeting on July 16, the Verkhovna Rada adopted at second reading bill No. 3485 "On the Introduction of Amendments to Some Laws of Ukraine on Improving the Electoral Legislation."

Amendments were introduced to the Electoral Code of Ukraine, as well as to certain provisions of the current laws "On the Central Election Commission," "On the State Register of Voters," the Criminal Code of Ukraine, and other laws.

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