On Thursday, Zelensky submitted a draft bill designed to protect the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (Sap) as the nation erupted in protests against the government's previous restrictions. Concerns about the legislative changes had compounded following statements from Ukraine’s Western allies, who expressed serious apprehension regarding the nation's commitment to anti-corruption efforts.
At a public address, Zelensky characterized the new bill as a crucial step in safeguarding the anti-corruption agencies from external influence, particularly from Russia. While he described the proposed legislation as "well-balanced," he declined to elaborate on its specifics. Nabu welcomed the initiative, asserting that it reinstated their procedural powers and independence, which had been compromised by the recently passed law that placed both Nabu and Sap under the control of the prosecutor general, a position appointed by the president.
These prior legislative changes were ostensibly justified by the need to combat alleged Russian espionage within Ukrainian institutions, coinciding with searches carried out by the security services against alleged Russian infiltrators. However, the resulting protests – the largest since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022 – highlighted the widespread public concern that these actions would undermine the integrity and effectiveness of key anti-corruption efforts.
In response to the upheaval, thousands marched through the streets of various Ukrainian cities, brandishing signs demanding an end to the newly enacted legislation. Critics of the changes accused Zelensky of democratic regression—making the situation particularly troubling as Ukraine currently pursues its EU candidate status. A spokeswoman for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of adherence to the rule of law and anti-corruption measures within the EU membership criteria.
Opposition lawmakers highlighted the paradox in Zelensky's statements about ensuring the anti-corruption institutions' independence after he initially stripped them of such powers. Although Zelensky refrained from directly addressing the protests or the criticisms against the government, he acknowledged the significance of respecting public sentiment and expressed gratitude for citizens’ support.
The evolution of anti-corruption institutions like Nabu and Sap, which were established in the wake of the 2014-15 reforms mandated by the European Commission and the International Monetary Fund, now faces scrutiny as Ukraine navigates its path towards European integration and stability.
At a public address, Zelensky characterized the new bill as a crucial step in safeguarding the anti-corruption agencies from external influence, particularly from Russia. While he described the proposed legislation as "well-balanced," he declined to elaborate on its specifics. Nabu welcomed the initiative, asserting that it reinstated their procedural powers and independence, which had been compromised by the recently passed law that placed both Nabu and Sap under the control of the prosecutor general, a position appointed by the president.
These prior legislative changes were ostensibly justified by the need to combat alleged Russian espionage within Ukrainian institutions, coinciding with searches carried out by the security services against alleged Russian infiltrators. However, the resulting protests – the largest since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022 – highlighted the widespread public concern that these actions would undermine the integrity and effectiveness of key anti-corruption efforts.
In response to the upheaval, thousands marched through the streets of various Ukrainian cities, brandishing signs demanding an end to the newly enacted legislation. Critics of the changes accused Zelensky of democratic regression—making the situation particularly troubling as Ukraine currently pursues its EU candidate status. A spokeswoman for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of adherence to the rule of law and anti-corruption measures within the EU membership criteria.
Opposition lawmakers highlighted the paradox in Zelensky's statements about ensuring the anti-corruption institutions' independence after he initially stripped them of such powers. Although Zelensky refrained from directly addressing the protests or the criticisms against the government, he acknowledged the significance of respecting public sentiment and expressed gratitude for citizens’ support.
The evolution of anti-corruption institutions like Nabu and Sap, which were established in the wake of the 2014-15 reforms mandated by the European Commission and the International Monetary Fund, now faces scrutiny as Ukraine navigates its path towards European integration and stability.
