The Ukrainian Canadian Congress is deeply concerned with the situation in Ukraine following the presidential elections on Sunday, November 21st. On November 22nd, in collaboration with the Ukrainian World Congress, the UCC issued a media release sending greetings to Victor Yuschenko as the winner of the election and offering him its support for the benefit of the Ukrainian people and an independent democratic Ukrainian state.

During the past 48 hours, the UCC has maintained continuous dialogue with the Canadian Government, both the Prime Minister's office and the office of the Honourable Pierre Pettigrew, Minister of Foreign Affairs. Both offices have assured the UCC that they are deeply concerned about the situation in Ukraine and are closely following events. Minister Pettigrew has called in the Ukrainian Ambassador to Canada to demand an immediate investigation of allegations of serious election fraud. In addition, the Minister of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on behalf of the Canadian government this afternoon, expressing his deep concern over a "variety of serious violations, including illegal voting practices, violence and patterns of intimidation against voters and election observers". The Minister stated that "The international community looks to Ukraine to ensure full transparency and an election result that truly represents the democratic will of the people."

"This is about Ukrainian democracy" states Canada's Ambassador to Ukraine, Andrew Robinson who had issued a statement in Kyiv. In a televised statement Prime Minister Martin called for a thorough investigation into the serious violations of the election process.

Rallies have been held across Canada, including a rally of 6,000 people in Toronto on November 23. Media coverage has been excellent and the UCC has given numerous interviews with the press, radio and television.

UCC appeals to Canadians to immediately contact their Member of Parliament to voice their concerns and to call upon the Canadian Government to help resolve the tenuous situation in Ukraine.

UCC congratulates the Ukrainian Canadian community for its rallying in support of democracy in Ukraine and encourages the Ukrainian Canadian community to continue to show support of the Ukrainian people's movement. UCC calls upon the Government of Canada to recognize the will of the Ukrainian people and recognize Victor Yuschenko as the President of Ukraine.

Irene (Orysia) Sushko
President, Ukrainian Canadian Congress
November 24, 2004

November 24, 2004