Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the submission of a new draft law aimed at restoring the independence of two key anti-corruption bodies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (Sap). This move comes only days after widespread protests erupted across the country, ignited by recent changes that imposed restrictions on these institutions.
Zelensky's about-face has been influenced by significant concerns from Ukraine’s Western allies, who viewed the original legislation as a threat to anti-corruption efforts in the country. The president described the revised bill as "well-balanced" and asserted its purpose was to defend Nabu and Sap from potential Russian influence. However, he did not disclose specific details regarding the legislative text.
Earlier this week, the contentious law had placed both Nabu and Sap under the authority of the prosecutor general, a position appointed by the presidency. At that time, Zelensky defended his actions by claiming they were necessary to counteract Russian interference, particularly after a series of raids and arrests linked to alleged Russian spies within the anti-corruption agency.
The legal amendment sparked the largest series of demonstrations seen in Ukraine since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, with thousands of citizens taking to the streets to protest against what they viewed as a detrimental law to anti-corruption measures. Demonstrators held signs urging Zelensky to reconsider the legislation, reflecting deep public concern about the erosion of institutional authority and autonomy.
Critics of Zelensky expressed alarm over what they perceived as democratic regression, particularly as concerns from Western partners mounted. The European Commission highlighted the importance of rule of law and anti-corruption measures as integral to Ukraine’s aspirations for EU membership. Following Senator Von der Leyen's earlier warnings, the Commission welcomed Zelensky's latest move to mitigate concerns related to the bill.
The formation of Nabu and Sap in 2014-2015 was prompted by European Commission and International Monetary Fund requirements necessary for progressing toward easing visa restrictions between Ukraine and the EU. Opposition MP Oleksiy Goncharenko criticized the government's logic by pointing out the inconsistencies in stripping away independence only to later emphasize its necessity.
Despite the chaos surrounding the protests and growing backlash, Zelensky’s public statements made no mention of the demonstrations themselves but expressed gratitude for those standing firm with Ukraine. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the ultimate impact of Zelensky's reversal on anti-corruption measures remains to be seen.
