Yushchenko taking a symbolic oath of office on 23 November (file photo)
24 November 2004 -- Ukrainian opposition leader Viktor Yushchenko said today that he does not accept the officially declared victory of his opponent, Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovych, in Ukraine's disputed presidential election.
Yushchenko called for a nationwide political strike to protest what the opposition says was massive fraud in the 21 November runoff vote.
"A path to a compromise through people demonstrating their will is the only path that will help us find a way out of this conflict," Yushchenko said. "Therefore, the committee of national salvation declares a nationwide political strike."
Yushchenko was addressing tens of thousands of supporters hours after the Central Election Commission said that will all votes counted, Yanukovych had won 49.46 percent of the vote, compared to 46.61 for Yushchenko.
Yushchenko called the election commission results "their latest crime."
Yushchenko's allies said the opposition wants to halt transport, block airports and railways, and close factories and schools.
Yuliya Tymoshenko, an Yushchenko ally, also said the opposition would go to Ukraine's Supreme Court tomorrow to protest alleged election fraud.
Yanukovych himself appeared briefly on state television, saying he is president and proposing talks with the opposition.
(AP/AFP/Reuters)
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Analysis:
What Might A 'Yanukovych Presidency' In Ukraine Bring?
Analysts Advise U.S. To Exercise Caution Over Crisis
What Legal Recourses Are Open To The Opposition?
"A path to a compromise through people demonstrating their will is the only path that will help us find a way out of this conflict," Yushchenko said. "Therefore, the committee of national salvation declares a nationwide political strike."
Yushchenko was addressing tens of thousands of supporters hours after the Central Election Commission said that will all votes counted, Yanukovych had won 49.46 percent of the vote, compared to 46.61 for Yushchenko.
Yushchenko called the election commission results "their latest crime."
Yushchenko's allies said the opposition wants to halt transport, block airports and railways, and close factories and schools.
Yuliya Tymoshenko, an Yushchenko ally, also said the opposition would go to Ukraine's Supreme Court tomorrow to protest alleged election fraud.
Yanukovych himself appeared briefly on state television, saying he is president and proposing talks with the opposition.
(AP/AFP/Reuters)
Related Stories:
Ukraine's Neighbors Watch Election Protests With Keen Interest
Yushchenko Supporters Say They Want Freedom To Live A Decent Life
Analysis:
What Might A 'Yanukovych Presidency' In Ukraine Bring?
Analysts Advise U.S. To Exercise Caution Over Crisis
What Legal Recourses Are Open To The Opposition?