The Ukrainian Parliament, also known as the Verkhovna Rada, is no stranger to controversy. Its members have often made headlines for their heated debates and divisive decisions. However, in recent news, a different kind of story has emerged from the halls of the Ukrainian Parliament. It’s a story of record-breaking attendance, but not in the way one might expect. Rather than breaking attendance records for their dedication to their work, some members of the Verkhovna Rada have made headlines for their impressive attendance record…of absences.
The Ukrainian media outlet «Chesno» recently released a report on the absenteeism of the current members of the Verkhovna Rada, who make up the ninth convocation of the parliament. The report revealed that some members of the parliament have attended less than 10% of the plenary sessions since the start of their term in 2019. This means that out of the 300 parliamentary sessions, some members have only attended 30 or less.
The report has caused quite a stir in the Ukrainian political arena, with many citizens expressing their outrage and disappointment in their elected officials. The low attendance record is not only a waste of taxpayers’ money, but it also raises questions about the commitment and dedication of these members to their duties as representatives of the people.
The record for the lowest attendance goes to MP Serhiy Rudyk, who has only attended 5 out of 300 parliamentary sessions. This amounts to a shocking 1.7% attendance rate. Other notable names on the list include MP Oleksandr Yurchenko with a 3.3% attendance rate and MP Mykhailo Bondar with 5% attendance.
The report also revealed that some members have claimed their attendance despite being absent. This is done through a practice known as «voting for absent colleagues,» where a member can cast a vote for themselves and their absent colleagues. This practice is not illegal, but it raises concerns about the accuracy of the voting records and the true level of participation of these members.
While some members of the parliament have defended their low attendance record by citing health or family issues, others have remained silent on the matter. However, the report has sparked a debate on the need for stricter regulations and accountability measures for parliamentarians.
In response to the report, the Verkhovna Rada’s press service stated that the attendance records are not the only indicator of a member’s work, and that their work includes committee meetings, working groups, and other activities. However, the report by «Chesno» has shed light on the issue of absenteeism in the Verkhovna Rada, and it remains to be seen if any action will be taken to address it.
The low attendance record of some members of the Verkhovna Rada is not only a reflection of their commitment to their duties, but it also undermines the trust and confidence of the Ukrainian people in their government. As representatives of the people, it is their responsibility to be present and actively participate in the decision-making process. The citizens of Ukraine deserve elected officials who are dedicated to their work and accountable for their actions.
In conclusion, the report by «Chesno» has brought attention to the issue of absenteeism in the Verkhovna Rada and sparked a much-needed debate on the need for stricter regulations and accountability measures. It’s time for the members of the parliament to take their duties seriously and fulfill their responsibilities to the people of Ukraine. The citizens of Ukraine deserve nothing less than a committed and responsible government that works for their best interests.
