MP Bezan Statement on Arrest of Ukraine’s Former PM Tymoshenko

(Selkirk, MB – August 8, 2011) James Bezan, Member of Parliament for Selkirk-Interlake, issued the following statement in response to the arrest in Ukraine of Yulia Tymoshenko, former prime minister and currently a member of the opposition: “I am disappointed and concerned with the arrest and detention of former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko [on August 5]. It appears that Ukraine's judiciary is either politically motivated or is allowing direct political interference from President Viktor Yanukovych's office. This trial is damaging Ukraine's democratic principles of good governance and rule of law. Many see this as petty politics and this trial is hurting Ukraine's reputation as a Western-styled democracy, as well as straining many of Ukraine’s international relationships.

“I call upon the Government of Ukraine to release Yulia Tymoshenko immediately and stop this trial. Canada urges the Ukrainian government to strengthen judiciary independence and continue to support efforts to build a peaceful, democratic and prosperous society in Ukraine.”

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James Bezan, Member of Parliament