Backlash Intensifies as Zelensky Curbs Anti-Corruption Agencies' Autonomy

Public protests erupt as concerns grow over potential negative impacts on Ukraine's fight against corruption and its European integration process.

Ukraine is experiencing a significant backlash following President Volodymyr Zelensky's recent signing of a law that restricts the independence of two crucial anti-corruption agencies – the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (Sap). The controversial legislation places control of these bodies under the prosecutor general, who is appointed by the president, leading to widespread criticism from both the public and experts.

Despite securing the support of 263 out of 324 members of parliament, many Ukrainians disagree with Zelensky's rationale that the agencies needed oversight due to stagnant criminal proceedings previously attributed to Russian influence. Critics argue that this move severely compromises Nabu and Sap's autonomy and effectiveness in combating corruption.

On the night of the bill's passage, protests erupted outside the presidential office in Kyiv, drawing thousands of demonstrators. Smaller rallies took place concurrently in cities including Odesa, Dnipro, Lviv, and Sumy—this marked the first significant anti-government mobilization since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. "Corruption lives – the future dies," read one sign, echoing sentiments of fear that the fight against corruption could be undermined as Ukraine strives for integration within the European Union.

The formation of Nabu and Sap in 2014 was critical for meeting EU and International Monetary Fund prerequisites aimed at reducing visa restrictions for Ukraine—a journey catalyzed by public protests against the pro-Russian regime of Viktor Yanukovych. The current legislation's ramifications could jeopardize Ukraine's status as an EU candidate, following its elevation in 2022 amid ongoing war efforts against Russia.

While Ukraine has made strides in addressing corruption—indicated by a jump of 39 points in Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index since the establishment of Nabu and Sap—the threat is looming larger as allegations of government graft persist, with high-profile investigations still underway.

As protest numbers rose, many voiced concerns that governmental oversight would lead to less accountability for officials, with one protester stating, "They have destroyed everything worked on for years." Despite a ban on large gatherings under martial law, plans for further demonstrations were announced, signaling a discontent that is unlikely to ease.

European officials are also expressing alarm, with Germany's foreign minister and France's European affairs minister voicing that such legislative measures hinder Ukraine's EU aspirations. Responding to the backlash, Zelensky conceded the protests’ significance but reiterated the necessity for unity against Russian aggression, promising to develop a joint corruption-fighting plan with Nabu and Sap.

The unfolding situation serves as a critical juncture for Ukraine, as citizens express fatigue at fighting both external threats and internal governance issues. A resident from Lviv articulated this sentiment, categorizing the law as an epitome of "government lawlessness." As negotiations between Russia and Ukraine resume in Istanbul, many citizens remain focused on the implications of the new law, overshadowing possible outcomes of the peace talks.