Hennady UDOVENKO:"I am the least ambitious and most tolerant"

"Our job is to win in the primary," said Rukh leader Vyacheslav Chornovil, who only a few days earlier forswore his own claims on the top job.

Still, Mr. Udovenko told The Day, "It is possible that in the course of talks some new name will surface. Rukh does not rule out supporting somebody else."

Q.: What qualities do you have that a President needs?

A.: It would be immodest for me to talk about my own qualities. However, I consider the strongest of my qualities to be that I am a supporter of strengthening Ukraine's statehood and sovereignty. I have a great ability to work. Although I haven't had a vacation in the last seven years, I haven't been to the doctor since 1985.

Q.: What forces do you think could unite behind your candidacy?

A.: National democratic forces can unite behind me. They think highly of me for my sticking to my principles in a policy designed to strengthen Ukrainian statehood. I did much to improve Ukraine's image in the international arena even in Soviet times. And then, I am a tolerant person, capable of compromise and averse to confrontation.

Q.: Do you have serious hopes in your presidential candidacy?

A.: Well, I no longer have anyplace else to go. Rukh and Reforms and Order are supporting me. All the time I have followed a line that I am the least ambitious and most tolerant of the candidates in Rukh.