09 September 2011, 16:58
In the interview to Rada television channel on Friday, the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine admitted that one cannot avoid politics in the parliament´s work, but shall prevent pure populism.
Asked about a new political season which started with the opening of the ninth session of the parliament, the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine stated, "I cannot agree that a political season started with the beginning of a new session. I would rather say that the session gave impetus to the domestic political process, and allowed the politicians to use the parliamentary lectern and television air to promote themselves." The Head of the Ukrainian Parliament drew attention to the fact that "Ukrainian politicians are in unequal conditions, as those at the parliament advertise themselves for free, while those outside the parliament are devoid of such an opportunity."
"It is obvious that one cannot avoid politics in the parliament´s work," V.Lytvyn admitted. "I cannot prohibit the deputies to express their political opinions while discussing any issue." He attaches great importance to the dialogue at the parliament, which should "reflect public moods and aspirations." "If it happens in the Verkhovna Rada, society will calm down. Otherwise, the streets will speak. And it is very difficult to stabilize life after the streets start speaking, as the Orange Revolution showed," V.Lytvyn stated.
He promised to exert every effort to guarantee that the parliamentary lectern is considered a permanent, open, all-Ukrainian ‘round table.´ "This function of the parliament should be more conspicuous in view of the aggravation of intolerance and cruelty and calls for confrontations," V.Lytvyn declared.
He stressed, "Besides political rhetoric, criticism and talks about the problems, we need problem-solving proposals and practical actions." According to the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, it is most important "to avoid pure populism which drives the country into a corner and prevents getting out of it."