President Volodymyr Zelensky has decided to dismiss long-serving Head of the Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak. This comes after the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine conducted searches at Yermak’s residence and in the government quarter. This event is making major waves in Ukrainian politics.
This is not the first change at the top of the Presidential Office: prior to Yermak, Andriy Bohdan held this post and later became a critic of Zelensky’s administration. Both dismissals arose from dissatisfaction, primarily from the president and political elite regarding their performance and interaction style.
Commentator Vitaly Portnikov highlights the growing importance of the head of the Presidential Office in the power hierarchy, linking it to monopolization, favoritism, and the resulting risks of corruption. Such power concentration often leads to lack of oversight and inefficiency in state management.
The roots of this governance model trace back to the 2019 elections, where Zelensky won 73% of the vote and a parliamentary majority, bringing many relatively unknown MPs into power, which reduced overall political responsibility in parliament.
Zelensky formed his team mostly from trusted colleagues in show business rather than established politicians, resulting in a leadership style marked by informality and personal trust over professional political experience.
Western partners insisted on the creation of independent anti-corruption authorities, notably NABU, which has become a key factor in checking government power. Recent events demonstrate that this oversight can reach even the president's closest associates.
Yermak’s resignation raises questions about institutional reforms, the necessity to strengthen Ukraine’s parliamentary-presidential governance, and shifting away from power monopolization. Parliamentary leaders emphasize that the main priority is the defense of the state and restoring trust among voters and Western partners.
This episode, which includes searches and a criminal investigation, is a serious challenge for both the presidential institution and the entire Ukrainian political system. Experts caution against repeating past mistakes and call for professionalization and transparent governance.
Going forward, maintaining balance, effective oversight, and national unity are crucial for preserving Ukrainian statehood. The responses to this current crisis will shape Ukraine's political development.
