Poroshenko’s ‘Volunteer’ Speechwriter Earns 7 Times More than All Other BPP Staff Members Combined

Political consultant Oleh Medvediev, known for writing speeches for President Poroshenko, earned ₴140,000 ($5,600) for his services during January-March 2016. This was reported by Ukrainska Pravda in its analysis of the expenses of political parties.

The combined salary of the three declared employees of Petro Poroshenko Bloc (BPP) for these same three months amounted to only ₴20,600. Other expenses for the first quarter totaled ₴265,000.

Medvediev claims that he writes speeches for Poroshenko on a volunteer basis. "As the ‘President’s speechwriter,’ I earn nothing, because I am not officially in this position. Poroshenko has a clear strategic vision of the country’s development, is knowledgeable about the areas belonging to his constitutional duties and can professionally articulate his thoughts," he explained.

"However, from time to time I have the honor to take part in the discussion, drafting and proofreading of the most critical speeches of the President. I don’t get paid for it – like many professionals from the private and NGO sector, I try to contribute to national reforms," he added.

"When it comes to the money I received from BPP, this was the payment I got for providing political, PR and analytical consultations to the party," Medvediev claimed.

Source: Ukrayinska Pravda