Yevhen Akymovych, one of the founders and leaders of the United
Social Democratic organization in Odesa oblast, docent at Odesa's State
Economic University, chief editor of the newspaper Demokratychna Diya
(The Democratic Action), quit the SDPU(u) on February 9.
"My views on the political situation in Ukraine differ from those of
the party leadership in principle," he declared at a meeting of the board
of the regional organization. "In particular, I do not share their view
on the presidential candidate. Like many other in Odesa I am all out in
support of Yevhen Marchuk. The party's thirteenth convention showed that
its current leader Medvedchuk is trying to get the party to serve the authorities.
In fact, SDPU(u) is turning into so many yes men for President Kuchma.
I am ashamed to remain its member, so I formally announce my withdrawal."
Mr. Akymovych further suggested that other members of the board "act
on principle" and join the Social Democratic Union (he is forming its Odesa
organization). For the time being none have followed suit. "Much will depend
on the next convention," The Day was told by Volodymyr Maksymovych,
head of the SDPU(u) oblast organization. "United Social Democrats believe
it will support Yevhen Marchuk as presidential candidate."






