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Is Zelenski a Dictator? It's time for Ukraine to elect a new leader.

February 28, 2025

Is Zelenski a Dictator? It's time for free elections in Ukraine.

The Case for Elections in Ukraine: Upholding Democratic Principles

Ukraine has long positioned itself as a beacon of democracy in Eastern Europe, distinguishing itself from the authoritarian tendencies of its Russian neighbor. However, a core principle of democracy is regular and free elections, ensuring that leaders remain accountable to the people. With President Volodymyr Zelensky’s term having extended beyond its original mandate due to the ongoing war, the question arises: Should Ukraine now hold elections to reaffirm its democratic legitimacy and allow the people to choose their leader? The answer is a resounding yes.

1. Democracy Requires Regular Elections

One of the defining characteristics of a democracy is the ability of the people to select and replace their leaders through regular, free, and fair elections. Zelensky was elected in 2019 with a strong mandate, but his term was scheduled to end in 2024. Due to the ongoing conflict with Russia, elections were postponed, a decision that now threatens to undermine Ukraine’s democratic standing if elections are delayed indefinitely.

Other democracies, even in times of war, have managed to hold elections. The United States held elections during the Civil War in 1864, and the United Kingdom continued democratic governance during World War II. Ukraine, as a nation that prides itself on its democratic identity, must follow suit.

2. Public Confidence and Legitimacy

Governments derive their legitimacy from the consent of the governed. If Ukraine does not hold elections soon, Zelensky’s leadership may begin to resemble the very autocratic governance Ukraine has resisted. Critics, both domestically and internationally, may argue that his extended rule is a power grab rather than a wartime necessity. Holding elections would reinforce the legitimacy of Ukraine’s government, whether Zelensky is re-elected or a new leader is chosen.

Moreover, Ukraine's Western allies, who provide financial and military support, are deeply invested in Ukraine’s democratic values. If Zelensky does not allow elections, Western confidence in his leadership may wane, potentially jeopardizing continued aid.

3. The Need for Fresh Leadership and Ideas

Zelensky's leadership has been widely praised for rallying Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. However, wartime leadership is different from long-term governance and national rebuilding. Ukraine faces enormous challenges:

  • Corruption: totally rampant and uncontrolled in Ukraine.
  • Post-war economic recovery: will require billions to rebuild infrastructure.
  • Diplomacy: will require someone who can negotiate with Trump and Putin. 
These challenges require new perspectives and new leadership beyond Zelensky’s wartime presidency. A new leader would bring fresh strategies for taming corruption, promoting economic growth, facilitating post-war reconstruction, and negotiating long-term security stability.

4. Avoiding the "Leader for Life" Trap

The main risk of allowing wartime leaders to remain indefinitely is that they can become dictators for life. Many authoritarian leaders in history have used national emergencies as excuses to suspend elections indefinitely. Ukraine must demonstrate that it is fundamentally different from Russia, where Vladimir Putin has extended his rule through manipulated elections and constitutional changes.

If Ukraine’s leadership remains unchanged without democratic validation, Ukraine risks undermining its international credibility and becoming little Russia.

5. The Technical Challenges of Elections in War Can Be Overcome

One of the main arguments against holding elections is that it would be difficult to organize them during war. While this is a valid concern, solutions exist such as:

  • Secure electronic voting or mail-in ballots for displaced Ukrainians.
  • Special provisions for military personnel to vote while serving.
  • International monitoring to ensure fair elections, even in wartime conditions.

Other countries, including Afghanistan and Iraq, have successfully held elections despite active conflicts. Ukraine can do the same with international support and proper planning.

Conclusion: A Test of Ukraine’s Democratic Commitment

It's time for Zelenski to step down. For Ukraine to truly be a democracy, it must trust its people to choose a new leader other than Zelenski. While Zelensky has played a crucial role in Ukraine’s wartime resistance, no leader should be irreplaceable in a democratic system. Holding elections would reaffirm Ukraine’s commitment to democratic values, maintain domestic and international legitimacy, and allow new leadership to address Ukraine’s evolving challenges.

It is time for Ukraine to uphold the democratic principles it stands for and allow the Ukrainian people—not war or political leaders—to decide their future.

Now you know it.

www.creatix.one

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