The Speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament, Ruslan Stefanchuk, has urged government officials to refrain from making statements that undermine the presumption of innocence for lawmakers and damage the reputation of the institution.
In a recent statement, Stefanchuk emphasized that the parliament operates strictly within the framework established by the Constitution. He acknowledged that while public criticism of politicians is a normal part of democracy, there is a clear line between legitimate critique and targeted discrediting of the institution.
Stefanchuk pointed out a troubling trend in Ukraine’s political culture, where hostility towards members of parliament has escalated significantly. He noted that the volume of manipulative accusations, defamatory criticism, and personal attacks against lawmakers has crossed the boundaries of reason and decency.
He also reminded the public that on February 24, 2022, amid a direct threat to the capital, many lawmakers gathered in central Kyiv to fulfill their constitutional duties and ensure the continuity of state operations.
Furthermore, he highlighted that this parliament was responsible for passing essential legislation that enabled Ukraine to gain candidate status for European Union membership and initiate accession talks.
Additionally, the Speaker noted that lawmakers have voted on measures necessary to meet Ukraine’s international obligations and secure financial support from partners to maintain economic stability during the ongoing war.
While acknowledging that some lawmakers are under scrutiny from law enforcement, Stefanchuk reminded everyone that this scrutiny arose after the parliament voluntarily abolished parliamentary immunity in 2019, thus stepping away from the ‘elite parliamentary club.’ He reiterated that the abolition of immunity does not negate the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence.
“No one has the right to label someone a criminal until their guilt is proven in a lawful manner and established by a court verdict,” Stefanchuk concluded.
Ukrainian Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk has called for restraint from government officials regarding public statements that could harm lawmakers' reputations. He emphasized the importance of the presumption of innocence while acknowledging ongoing scrutiny of some members.