Kathmandu— Former Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has publicly called for Ukraine to hold elections despite the ongoing war with Russia, a move that represents the most significant internal challenge faced by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy since February 2022. In a YouTube address released Tuesday, Fedorov argued that Ukrainian democracy should not be “held hostage” by the conflict and urged officials to establish a way to resume democratic processes. While Ukrainian law currently prohibits elections during wartime, no prominent political figure had previously advocated for them since the Russian invasion began.

Unexpected Dismissal and Rising Profile

The 35-year-old Fedorov served as a close ally of Zelenskyy until his unexpected dismissal from the Defence Ministry in July, only six months after being appointed. His removal sparked protests throughout Ukraine, fueled by his reputation as a reformer willing to challenge established military structures and speculation that he could become a political rival to Zelenskyy. Tensions with armed forces commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskii – who was also later replaced amid public pressure – are believed to have contributed to Fedorov’s firing.

Governance Crisis and Corruption Concerns

Fedorov used his address to highlight what he described as a “systemic crisis of governance” within Ukraine, criticizing institutions resistant to change. He pointed to corruption as a factor undermining the country's war effort, though he did not directly mention Zelenskyy by name. His call for elections is unprecedented among major Ukrainian political figures since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Election Delay and Political Maneuvering

Zelenskyy’s presidential term officially ended in May 2024, but the country has postponed its election due to ongoing martial law. The president has appointed Yevhenii Khmara, a career intelligence official with limited public recognition, as acting defence minister. Fedorov was reportedly offered alternative government positions, including deputy prime minister for military innovation, but stated he would only accept reinstatement as Defence Minister. On Wednesday, Zelenskyy asked parliament to confirm Khmara’s appointment.

Continued Protests and Public Support

Protests in support of Fedorov have continued for the past month, though their initial momentum has waned; demonstrations still regularly draw around two thousand attendees in Kyiv.

As of Wednesday, Zelenskyy's office had not issued a statement regarding Fedorov’s call for elections. Parliament is scheduled to vote on confirming Yevhenii Khmara as the new defence minister.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.