President Zelensky aims to address public concerns about curbing anti-corruption agencies' autonomy, sparked by recent legislation changes.
**Zelensky Proposes New Legislation to Protect Anti-Corruption Agencies Amid Protests**
**Zelensky Proposes New Legislation to Protect Anti-Corruption Agencies Amid Protests**
Ukrainian President announces a draft law to secure the independence of anti-corruption bodies following nationwide demonstrations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has unveiled a draft law aimed at ensuring the autonomy of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (Sap), just days after widespread protests erupted across the nation. The disturbances followed controversial legislation that sought to place these anti-corruption entities under the control of the prosecutor general, a position appointed by the president.
In a statement released Thursday, Zelensky indicated that the new proposal is designed to fortify the anti-corruption institutions against potential Russian influence, although he refrained from providing specific details about the bill. This announcement represents a significant pivot as the Ukrainian leader faces mounting criticism for what many perceive as a regression in democratic principles.
Opposition figures, including MP Oleksiy Goncharenko, have condemned the government's previous actions as contradictory, lamenting that the independence of these organizations was compromised only to be later emphasized as essential. “First, we take it away, and then we say that it must be guaranteed. So why was all this necessary?” Goncharenko remarked on social media, reflecting widespread public discontent.
The initial legislation drew ire from citizens, resulting in the largest anti-government demonstrations seen since the onset of the full-scale invasion by Russia in 2022. Protesters took to the streets in cities throughout Ukraine, voicing their fear that the new law would inhibit Nabu and Sap's effectiveness in combating corruption. The response was further fueled by signals of unease from Ukraine's Western allies, who view the fight against corruption and adherence to the rule of law as critical elements for Ukraine's aspirations for European Union membership.
The European Commission has expressed its approval of the Ukrainian government's decision to reconsider the controversial legislation. Supporting Ukraine's efforts to align with EU standards is essential, particularly after Nabu and Sap were established in the wake of reforms demanded by international financial bodies in 2014-15.
Despite upheaval, President Zelensky acknowledged the importance of respecting the opinions of all Ukrainians and expressed gratitude to those standing with Ukraine, although he notably did not comment directly on the protests. As the political landscape evolves, the implications of the draft law and the government's commitment to anti-corruption efforts remain to be seen.
