Following widespread protests across Ukraine, President Zelensky has submitted a new draft bill to restore the autonomy of key anti-corruption agencies, responding to both public outcry and international pressure regarding prior legislation that threatened their independence.
Zelensky Reconsiders Legislation Impacting Anti-Corruption Institutions Amid National Protests
Zelensky Reconsiders Legislation Impacting Anti-Corruption Institutions Amid National Protests
Ukrainian President Zelensky reverses stance on anti-corruption bill after massive demonstrations challenge his government's recent decisions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the introduction of a new draft law aimed at reinstating the independence of two key anti-corruption agencies — the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (Sap). This move comes just days after significant protests erupted nationwide over previous changes that had limited the agencies' autonomy.
Zelensky explained that the newly proposed bill was crafted to ensure these bodies remain free from external influences, particularly from Russia. The president characterized the draft as "well-balanced," though he did not divulge specific details about its content. Nabu welcomed the draft, stating that it reinstated their procedural powers and protected their independence.
Earlier in the week, a controversial law had placed Nabu and Sap under the authority of the prosecutor general, who is appointed by the president himself. Zelensky had previously defended this decision, citing alleged Russian intervention, especially following recent security operations targeting supposed Russian operatives within the agency. However, this legislation prompted the largest anti-government demonstrations in Ukraine since the onset of the war, with numerous citizens rallying against any moves that could weaken anti-corruption efforts.
Demonstrators took to the streets, expressing fears that the new law would erode the effectiveness and power of these critical institutions. With thousands participating, protestors held placards demanding a veto to the legislation. Public sentiment intensified as commentators labeled Zelensky's actions as potential democratic regression, especially in light of disapproval from Ukraine's Western partners, who have emphasized the importance of rule of law and anti-corruption measures for Ukraine's aspirations to join the European Union.
The European Commission's spokesperson communicated a desire to further engage with the Ukrainian government to address their concerns following the introduction of the bill. The establishment of Nabu and Sap in 2014 and 2015 was pivotal in Ukraine's relations with the EU, setting the stage for easing visa restrictions.
Opposition MP Oleksiy Goncharenko criticized Zelensky's conflicting statements, questioning the need to revoke the institutions' independence before advocating for its protection. Although Zelensky’s public address on social media did not directly reference the public discontent, he acknowledged the importance of respecting diverse opinions among Ukrainians.
