Centrists on the way to a new bloc
The Party of the Regions and the Agrarian Party of Ukraine signed a partnership and cooperation agreement on June 7. The signatories, Mykola Azarov and Mykhailo Hladiy, declared that the parties would act as equal partners and that “further actions will be undertaken only after joint consultations.” It was further announced that the parties had united on the basis of similar ideologies and views about economic reform, regional, and agrarian policy. Mykola Azarov disputed the allegation that the alliance was to be explained by tactical considerations. He believes that the alliance is not between parties representing the eastern and western regions or between the agrarians and metals lords. “Both parties are influential enough in all regions of Ukraine,” he stated, adding that the Donbas, despite its strategic importance to the Ukrainian economy, “is not sufficiently represented in Verkhovna Rada, and its representation must be expanded. We forget that the rebirth of Ukraine began at the Donbas... In any case, the Party of the Regions is not a party of one region.”
Mykhailo Hladiy said he does not rule out the possibility of similar agreements with other Center parties, and even a bloc with the NDP (People’s Democratic Party) is possible. “There is nothing wrong with Ukraine having three or four powerful election blocs; the electorate will only benefit from it,” Mykola Azarov added. He pointed out, however, that his party is not yet cooperating with the People’s Democrats. Commenting on possible cooperation with Viktor Yushchenko, he said, “He must make up his mind.”
“Yushchenko is a very strong politician, and we wouldn’t mind having him with us, but we’ll be more specific on the subject later,” added Mykhailo Hladiy.
The party leaders feel just as friendly toward the new premier, Anatoly Kinakh. “We’ll certainly support the new government, and if we want to criticize them, we’ll come and say it openly. Everything will be kept in the limits of a constructive discussion,” said Mr. Azarov.
Mr. Hladiy was more diplomatic: “We voted for Kinakh and will support him if only for his determination not to start work from scratch.”
Both new allies assured that the bloc and roster were still a long way off. “The list is not the point,” declared Mykola Azarov. In his opinion, the important thing is for the new lawmakers not to “switch factions a dozen times.” As for the possible competition with the Democratic Union, he said, “We treat every political figure quite seriously. The premier vote showed that we are of like minds. In this case, however, everything depends on their specific democratic and regional principles. I have nothing against competition.”
Thus the first stage of forming elections blocs is underway. It is hard to say what these new blocs will be like. Those taking part in the event believe that the subject should be raised not earlier than September. The first stage is marked by maximum openness on the part of all blocs. Obviously, advances are being made left and right, the previous and the current cabinet’s way. The first stage will be completed after the consolidation centers feel out and come up with each other’s principal divergences. The latter might have to do with the general and cadre policy, as well as with party rosters. This early, broaching the subject seems improper.
