Azarov to take over as Central bank governor, Boiko to become premier, expert forecasts

 “The decision to raise utility tariffs was first mouthed by Serhy Tihipko who is considered to be the author of unpopular austerity measures. Therefore, I think he is the most likely one to be sacked,” Berezovets says.

Simultaneously, the expert believes Tihipko may take a preemptive step and resign before the local elections, complaining that he was not allowed to implement his radical reforms.
In any way, the expert claims, the Azarov cabinet was a temporary one, with Azarov serving the main purpose of removing the Tymoshenko cabinet.

 “The Party of Regions is now torn by conflict as many are eager to grab Azarov’s seat. Yanukovych is well aware that the conflict will intensify, especially so that Azarov has reached a retirement age and is loath to engage in a bitter wrangling over his turf. That is why he will be likely offered a quieter job of a chief banker,” the expert notes.

There are several candidates breathing down Azarov’s neck – vice premiers Kolesnikov and Kliuev, president’s chief-of-staff Liovochkyn and Fuel Minister Boiko.

“Boiko is a hot favorite as he belongs to the influential Firtash-Liovochkin group which dominates Yanukovych’s personnel policy,” Berezovets believes.