President Believes SDPU(o) Had No Hand in Cassette Scandal

President Leonid Kuchma has ruled out any involvement by the SDPU(o) leadership in the plotting of the so-called cassette scandal. The head of state announced this at the December 18 press conference following a seminar for regional mass media representatives. Mr. Kuchma reflected, “If the president had lost his nerve and resigned, in what way could that have benefited the SDPU(o)?” In such a case former Premier Viktor Yushchenko would have become caretaker president, the president said, and “taking into consideration the resources and situation, who would win early elections? It’s obvious. What are they, suicidal?” Mr. Kuchma reminded listeners that it is up to the law enforcement authorities to pinpoint the masterminds of this scandal, adding that the plotters are still at work, reports UNIAN.