04 March 2011, 14:41
Mykola Tomenko, Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, is convinced that the first reading of the bills on central executive power bodies and on the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine (re authorities) confirms that the President's Administration has been transformed from the advisory body into a supreme executive power body, while the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has been turned into an advisory agency.
M. Tomenko made this statement, commenting on the today´s voting in the Parliament. Thus, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted the bill, whereby the First Deputy Minister, Deputy Minister of Ukraine shall head the ministry according to the Decree of the President (Reg. No.8055). 262 People´s Deputies voted in favour of the bill. The Parliament adopted the bill which authorizes the President to dismiss Ministers without the recommendation of the Prime Minister. The bill on amendments to the Law on Cabinet of Ministers (Reg. No.8056) was upheld by 254 People´s Deputies.
According to M. Tomenko, it means that "Ukraine is being changed into a strong presidential republic." However, he considers it a paradox that the so-called American model is being introduced by the people positioning themselves as supporters of anti-Americanism.
Moreover, Mykola Tomenko stated that these two bills might not be lobbied by the governmental officials, but by the President´s Administration fighting for its authority and status.
M. Tomenko stressed that such an approach is harmful, as it levels the checks and balances system in the executive power.