Rada snubs Vitrenko's nomination for energy minister

Yuriy Vitrenko, a former top manager with Naftogaz of Ukraine, has not been approved in Parliament to take the helm of the country's energy ministry.

Upon learning the result of the vote, Vitrenko took to Facebook to wish lawmakers to find and endorse "the best candidate" for the post.

"Thanks to all who supported me! This is a very useful experience. Now I can tell my kids that I didn't refuse to help the country in difficult times. And that it's not me who doesn't need this. I sincerely wish the MPs to find the best candidate who can make our country stronger!" wrote Vitrenko.

Vote on Vitrenko nomination: Background

Read alsoRada appoints Minister for Agrarian PolicyOn December 17, the Verkhovna Rada did not support the appointment of the former top manager of Naftogaz Ukrainy, Yuriy Vitrenko, as first vice prime minister, minister of energy.  A total of 186 People's Deputies backed his nomination, with the required minimum of 226 votes.

Chairman of the ruling Servant of the People faction David Arakhamia believes that the Parliament's move was due to insufficient communication with lawmakers.