Ukraine's president-elect, Viktor Yanukovych, said he did not rule out former Ukrainian central banker Sergei Tigipko being his prime minister.
"Tigipko's candidacy is on the list that will be discussed next week in the parliament," the newly elected Ukrainian president told BBC Ukrainian. "I understand very well that the creation of a coalition [in the parliament] may surround a future prime minister's candidacy, which is why I will assist in the parliament's consolidation."
Sergei Tigipko, 49, who came third in the first round of the election, earlier said he was ready to be prime minister under Yanukovych or his opponent, current Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, and added he would focus on the "modernization" of the ex-Soviet nation.
Tigipko said he believed the prime minister was the second most important policymaker after the president.
Yanukovych said that it was "unrealistic" for Tymoshenko to retain her post. "I suggested that Tymoshenko resign, and I think she will do so."
In Ukraine, the parliamentary majority rather than president proposes a candidate for prime minister.
In line with the official results, the presidential election's second round on February 7 gave Yanukovych 48.95%, or 12,481,266 votes, while Yulia Tymoshenko garnered 45.47%, or 11,593,357 votes. A total of 4.36% voted against all.
Yanukovych's inauguration is expected to be held on February 24, according to the deputy head of his Party of Regions, Anna German.
KIEV, February 15 (RIA Novosti)
