Ukraine is in turmoil after President Volodymyr Zelensky enacted a law reducing the independence of pivotal anti-corruption agencies. The new legislation, passed with a vote of 263 to 61 from a total of 324 MPs, places the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (Sap) under the oversight of the prosecutor general, a position appointed by the president himself.
As a result, thousands took to the streets in Kyiv for the second consecutive night, brandishing signs expressing disapproval of Zelensky's decision. Demonstrators echoed sentiments of public anger, with chants and placards demanding a reversal of the decision. Despite the ongoing threat of Russian attacks, protests erupted not only in Kyiv but also in cities like Odesa, Dnipro, Lviv, and Sumy.
Zelensky, acknowledging the outrage, indicated he would propose a new bill to lawmakers, although specifics were not disclosed. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Western allies, including the European Commission, voiced their concerns, stating that the law could jeopardize the nation's fight against corruption and its aspirations for EU integration.
Critics of the law assert that such measures roll back progress made since the pro-EU protests of 2014 that ousted former President Viktor Yanukovych, accused of widespread corruption. The establishment of Nabu and Sap was pivotal for Ukraine’s reform commitments to the European community, with improving corruption ratings as a key part of this narrative.
As one protester remarked, this legislation has the potential to create a milieu reminiscent of Ukraine's past corruption scandals. International officials also issued warnings, affirming that upholding the rule of law is fundamental for any candidate pursuing EU membership.
Ukrainians recognize the implications of this legal change, questioning whether political allies will be exempt from scrutiny under these new regulations. A joint statement from the agencies expressed dismay at the loss of independence that allowed them to operate without external pressure.
As mass gatherings continue, public sentiment suggests an acute awareness among citizens regarding the importance of anti-corruption measures, especially in the context of their ongoing struggle against Russian militarism. Some citizens have openly criticized the government, viewing the legislation as an erosion of democratic values and a step away from the progress made in recent years.
The ripple effects of this law could hinder Ukraine’s aspirations for EU membership, with protests anticipated throughout the country as discontent grows. As one protester summed up, many feel caught in a dual fight against both external enemies and a government perceived to be errant in its duties.
