During a plenary session of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, the establishment of the inter-factional parliamentary association “Free Ichkeria” was officially announced. The announcement was made by First Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada, Oleksandr Korniyenko.
The association includes members of parliament from the Servant of the People, European Solidarity, and Holos parties. At present, the caucus consists of 12 MPs, and additional lawmakers continue to join.
The Free Ichkeria parliamentary association is founded on several key principles: recognition of the sovereignty of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria, recognition of Russia’s occupation of Chechnya, recognition of the illegitimacy of Ramzan Kadyrov’s rule, and recognition of the genocide of the Chechen people.
The association is committed to supporting the Chechen people’s aspirations for independence through promoting international discussion on the de-occupation of Chechnya and assisting in the restoration and development of Ichkerian statehood.
This significant achievement became possible thanks to the initiative of the united Chechen diaspora and its leaders, Dzhambulat Suleymanov and Anzor Maskhadov, with whom we held productive discussions regarding the future of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria. Opposing Kadyrov and speaking publicly about his crimes on the international stage can be dangerous. Nevertheless, I am encouraged that there are people who, despite the risks, remain committed to the struggle for the freedom and independence of their homeland.
Chechnya will face a difficult journey from de-occupation to free elections and full independence. It is important that Ukraine has become a friend and partner on this path, and that the number of such friends will continue to grow. Members of the parliamentary association will work toward that goal.
Chechnya deserves democratic leadership, free media, freedom of speech, a legitimate political opposition, and an independent judicial system. These are the foundations of a free and democratic future.
Much work remains ahead. However, the course has been set, the objectives have been defined, and the team has been assembled. We are confident that this effort will produce results.