INS says Lazarenko has "credible fear" (03/07/99)

INS says Lazarenko has "credible fear"

NEW YORK - Pavlo Lazarenko, who was described in a March 4 press release issued by his legal counsel as a "former prime pinister of Ukraine who is fighting to bring about gradual reform leading to an improved economic climate in his native country," issued a statement regarding an initial favorable decision by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) on the status of his application for political asylum.

In a statement released by his attorney, James R. Mayock of San Francisco, Mr. Lazarenko said:

"I have been informed by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service that there is a significant possibility that I can establish eligibility for political asylum in the United States. After my initial hearing, the INS has determined that my fear of persecution or harm in Ukraine is credible, thus beginning the process of more review and hearings on my situation. Also, my forcible return to Ukraine may be prevented under the International Convention Against Torture.

"I want to tell my many supporters in Ukraine, the Ukrainian community around the world, and the American public that the warrant for my arrest issued by Ukrainian prosecutors is totally without substance. I am a victim of political persecution by the government of President Leonid Kuchma. Criminal investigations in Ukraine and Switzerland are part of a systematic, politically motivated plot to repress opposition. I will not be intimidated by such tactics and remain the official presidential candidate of the Hromada Party for the October 1999 elections.

"While my supporters in Ukraine continue to advance my platform for a vibrant economy, I will continue to seek temporary political asylum in the United States. I am confident that officials here will understand my situation and act accordingly. I want to take this opportunity to thank Ukrainians around the world who back my cause for economic stability and lasting reforms in my home country."

The release was sent by Nicolazzo & Associates of Boston, who have been retained as communications counsel.

* * *

In a brief telephone interview, Mr. Mayock told The Weekly that his client remains in INS custody in New York, in a jail facility near John F. Kennedy International Airport. He said he is not at liberty to disclose who of Mr. Lazarenko's family is here in the U.S., but reiterated that they remain in the San Francisco area.

Questioned further about the timeframe in Mr. Lazarenko's case, Mr. Mayock said that, now that a determination of credible fear has been made, "we believe that in a number of weeks he will be released." He added that he expects a political asylum hearing to be held in six to eight weeks.

As regards any other cases involving his client, including that in Switzerland, Mr. Mayock said those are now on hold pending resolution of the asylum matter in the U.S.

| Home Page |