Recent events in the Ukrainian parliament, described by The New York Times, testify to a significant level of disorder and violations of discipline among the country's political elites. The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, according to constitutional norms, has broad powers, including control over the government and the legislative process. However, recent evidence suggests that these powers are often under threat due to indiscipline and insufficient accountability of members of parliament and government officials.
As the publication reminds, the Verkhovna Rada has more powers than the president. However, now even the ministers, who are required by law to appear at meetings when they are summoned, do not always do so, and they get away with it.
Zelensky's Servant of the People party, once a serious political force, has effectively lost its majority, splitting into factions. In order to pass key bills, it is forced to rely on the support of legislators who belonged to the now-banned pro-Russian party "Opposition Bloc".
Confusion in parliament and an unusual alliance between the ruling party and former members of a disbanded pro-Russian party are undermining confidence in the government, which is trying to restart hostilities after months of Russian gains.
Critics say this disarray prevents parliament from playing any meaningful role in overseeing the activities of government agencies, even as billions of dollars in foreign aid pour into Ukraine.
The confusion has also fueled criticism that Zelenskyi's cabinet appears to have concentrated too much power beyond that already granted to him under the country's martial law.
