In a historic response to public outcry, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announces a draft law aimed at reinforcing the autonomy of crucial anti-corruption institutions, a decision prompted by extensive protests against recent legislation perceived as undermining their authority.
Zelensky Responds to Protests with New Draft Law to Safeguard Anti-Corruption Bodies
Zelensky Responds to Protests with New Draft Law to Safeguard Anti-Corruption Bodies
Ukrainian President moves to ensure independence of anti-corruption agencies following widespread public discontent.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has unveiled a draft law aimed at protecting the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (Sap) after a wave of nationwide protests erupted over a bill that many perceived as a direct attack on these institutions. This announcement comes as Ukraine's Western allies expressed strong concerns regarding the merit of the contested legislation.
The new draft law is characterized by Zelensky as a measure to fortify the credibility and autonomy of anti-corruption efforts amidst fears of expanding Russian influence in the sector. “This bill is balanced,” he remarked, although he refrained from providing further specifics about its provisions during the announcement.
Earlier in the week, Zelensky’s administration had moved legislation through parliament that would have brought Nabu and Sap under the purview of the prosecutor general, a figure directly appointed by the presidency. This decision faced immediate backlash, resulting in the largest demonstrations since Russia's large-scale invasion began in February 2022. Protesters gathered in cities across Ukraine, waving banners advocating for the veto of the new legislation and voicing alarm over the potential erosion of anti-corruption measures.
The international community reacted swiftly, with officials from the European Commission emphasizing that upholding the rule of law, particularly in the fight against corruption, is critical for Ukraine's aspirations of EU membership. This confrontation put additional pressure on Zelensky, whose government has long sought to align with European Union standards.
Critics of the president, including opposition politician Oleksiy Goncharenko, expressed skepticism over the sincerity of Zelensky’s commitment to anti-corruption, framing the situation as a classic example of democratic backsliding. “First we take it away, and then we say that it must be guaranteed,” Goncharenko stated regarding the government's contradictory actions.
Zelensky’s message on social media, while reaffirming the stance for transparency and cooperation with the public, notably sidestepped any acknowledgment of the protests, instead underscoring gratitude for the solidarity expressed by citizens supporting Ukraine.
As this crucial dialogue on anti-corruption continues, the upcoming legislative actions will be closely monitored, both domestically and internationally, as stakeholders await the implications for governance and Ukraine's journey towards greater European integration.
