Ukraine political party's candidate? 'Darth Vader'

Whether this is a clever April Fools' Day prank or the ultimate bid in Kiev party politics, watching Darth Vader hit the Ukraine campaign trail is an epic sight to behold.

According to the The Guardian, "the Sith lord, or at least an unnamed costumed protester often seen on Kiev's Independence Square flanked by his loyal stormtroopers during the winter protests, has been chosen as the official candidate of the Ukrainian Internet Party (UIP), which has become known for its theatrical public stunts."

After a bloody protest against the government and its former leader Viktor Yanukovych, the Ukraine is holding a quick presidential election on May 25.

If this is to be believed, Darth Vader plans to run with the party's approval. "After winning intra-party primaries by a landslide, comrade Vader will be our party's candidate," UIP leader Dmitry Golubov told The Guardian.

The UIP said it paid the required registration fee of approximately $226,412 to allow Darth Vader to run as a legitimate candidate.

"I am ready to take responsibility for the fate of the state if countrymen will have me in such a high honor," Darth Vader said in a party statement. "Only I can make the Empire return to its former power, lost territory and pride in the country." It's not clear who is wearing the Vader costume.

The purpose of the Internet Party of the Ukraine, according to its Web site, is to "generate efficient and quality processes to provide socially important public services."

It also wants to implement electronic voting in the Ukraine and an e-census of its citizens, and to publish an online budget so people can see the government's financial activities.

No word on who Vader might handpick to help run things smoothly by his side. Perhaps a representative of the light side of the Force will step forward. Either way, this race should be interesting, and hopefully with a few random lightsaber duels thrown in.