Ukrainian PM criticizes Kiev mayor for poor work

Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov harshly criticized Kiev's authorities and warned against possible radical measures, the government's press service said on Saturday.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov harshly criticized Kiev's authorities and warned against possible radical measures, the government's press service said on Saturday.

"In my opinion, the authorities in the capital are not working," Azarov said.

Kiev Mayor Leonid Chernovetskiy was elected in 2008, and was rather popular before the financial crisis but his rating saw a substantial drop recently.

On March 17, President Viktor Yanukovych ordered Kiev government authorities to improve the living standards in the Ukrainian capital.

Yanukovych, who has already replaced governors in several Ukrainian regions, cannot fire Chernovetskiy but the country's parliament can appoint early elections of Kiev's mayor.

Azarov said that Kiev officials must "either improve their work, or resign" but promised that the government will help the local authorities.

He criticized Chernovetskiy for the poor condition of Kiev's roads, street lighting, garbage disposal, water shortage and power cuts and traffic jams.

"Underground parking garages remained on paper. How will Kiev host Euro 2012?" Azarov said.

Ukraine's readiness for the 2012 tournament, which it is to share with Poland, has been a constant source of concern for the UEFA. The UEFA has so far only confirmed games will be played in the capital, Kiev. Poland's preparations were approved by the European football's governing body in April 2007.

KIEV, March 20 (RIA Novosti)