Developments in the Kolonshchyna Community
In Kyiv Oblast’s Kolonshchyna community, the Makaryiv settlement council deputies have voted down the nomination of Hryhoriy Nevmerezhytskyi for the position of starosta (local elder) of the Kolonshchyna district. The nomination was put forward by the settlement head, Vadym Tokar. Residents voiced strong dissatisfaction over the absence of any public consultation regarding the nominee, emphasizing their desire to participate in the selection of the new starosta. As a result of the failed vote, the district remains without a starosta.
Hryhoriy Nevmerezhytskyi has held several leadership roles within the Makaryiv district, including heading the district’s social protection department. From 2020 until recently, he led the social protection department of the settlement council. In the 2020 elections, Nevmerezhytskyi secured 2,733 votes, ranking second out of nine candidates. Vadym Tokar defended his nomination as a carefully considered decision fully compliant with current legislation.
“Clause 11³ of Section V of Ukraine's Law 'On Local Self-Government in Ukraine' clearly states that during martial law, public discussions concerning starosta candidates are not required.” — Vadym Tokar
Nevertheless, residents protested the closed selection process. "Our opposition is not personal against him. We object to the lack of public discussion and the secretive nature of the nomination. People were unaware such a session would take place," said Natalia Bida, a community representative. She added that residents were prohibited from recording the meeting and that about ten locals were prevented from entering the session hall.
Community Sentiment and Church Affairs
A local poll involving 211 respondents revealed overwhelming support—209 voters favored a starosta from their own community, while only 2 backed a candidate from Makaryiv or elsewhere. The unresolved leadership vacuum in the Kolonshchyna starosta district has heightened concerns among residents.
Beyond leadership issues, the Kolonshchyna community recently held a religious assembly to discuss transferring the Church of St. John the Theologian under the jurisdiction of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU). Over 100 locals attended, unanimously agreeing to the change. This decision was largely driven by the previous priest’s refusal to honor fallen Ukrainian soldiers.
Currently, the Kolonshchyna district is caught in a state of uncertainty regarding both local governance and church affiliation. Vadym Tokar assured that future decisions will prioritize the community's interests, yet recent events highlight significant tension and dissatisfaction among residents.
This situation underscores the critical role of community engagement in local governance. The lack of public involvement in selecting the starosta has sparked serious concerns among residents eager to have a say in decisions impacting their lives. Additionally, the church jurisdiction shift reflects broader social changes and community needs that demand thoughtful dialogue and support from local authorities.