Within the political mess of a country that is Ukraine, there appears to be a genuine attempt of the people to regain control of their nation and develop a democracy that will help move towards Europe and the West in general.

Personally, I believe that tensions will arise regardless of whether Ukraine turns its back on Russia or not, due to the split nature of Ukraine’s society (Polish origins in the West gained from Austria-Hungary after its downfall and Russian speakers of the East, formerly of the USSR).

However, among the several candidates vying to become the figurehead that will attempt to drag Ukraine out of this mess, Vitali Klitschko, a recently retired former heavyweight champion, stands toe to toe with hardened politicians of the Ukrainian political scene. Many see him exactly as a figurehead, solely a man to inspire the people and oversee a transition with the help of more experienced and wiser politicians. However, Klitschko does display an ardent love for politics and has made his political stance clear on several occasions.

Last November, he openly displayed his opposition to Yanukovych when he refused to sign a trade deal with the EU to maintain connections with Russia. Klitschko goes on to preach the European Union as a model for the future economic and political development of Ukraine. Despite his stature and boxing prowess, Klitschko is also a renowned academic with a doctorate degree in sports sciences from the University of Kiev and proficiency in four languages.

In spite of Klitschko’s political inexperience, his popularity , willingness and above all commitment to pave the way for his people is clear. Perhaps, this crucial moment in Ukraine’s existence is not the exact time at which he should assume the Presidential helm, but an influential political role in which he makes a significant impact is plausible. There is always a strong possibility that Klitschko will rise to prominence in Ukrainian politics, but perhaps now is too risky a time.