Terekhov said he has no plans to leave Kharkiv to take a job in Kyiv
Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov stated that he will remain in the city until the war ends and has no plans to take a position with the central government. At the same time, he believes that holding elections is impossible under the current circumstances.
Terekhov Will Remain in Kharkiv
Responding to a question about a possible move to the central government, Terekhov stated that he does not intend to leave Kharkiv until the war ends.
“Until the end of the war—I’ll definitely be in Kharkiv. Put that on record,” the mayor said.
On the Elections
Speaking about the possibility of holding elections, Terekhov noted that, in his opinion, it is currently impossible to ensure the process is fully democratic and to guarantee all citizens the right to vote and be elected.
“My opinion is that under these conditions, it is impossible to hold elections. Unfortunately,” he said.
The mayor emphasized that society is changing, and along with it, political priorities may shift and new leaders may emerge.
Therefore, Terekhov believes, elections should reflect the true will of the people, rather than being held for the sake of political ratings.
How to Hold Elections After the War
Terekhov specifically drew attention to the issue of participation by Ukrainians living abroad and unregistered voters.
According to him, low voter turnout carries the risk that the results will not reflect the views of society as a whole.
He also believes that the elections should symbolize the end of the war and establish a government that will work to rebuild the country.
At the same time, in his opinion, the political process must not provoke new confrontations.
“Elections for the sake of poll numbers are unnecessary. Otherwise, there will be a problem,” the mayor emphasized.
Terekhov also stated that he would not make the elections the main issue at this time, as the diplomatic process is ongoing.
In his view, it is first necessary to wait for the results of the diplomatic process and achieve peace, after which the opportunity to hold elections will arise.
Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov made these remarks in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.
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