Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a swift policy reversal this week, submitting a draft law to restore the independence of two key anti-corruption bodies following widespread protests across the nation. The unrest marked the largest anti-government demonstration since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, sparked by proposed legislation that had placed the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (Sap) under the authority of the prosecutor general, a position appointed by the president.
In his announcement, Zelensky assured that the new bill aims to protect these institutions from external influence, notably from Russia. Although he described the legislation as "well-balanced," he did not provide explicit details. The Nabu expressed optimism that the forthcoming bill would restore their procedural powers and guarantees of independence.
The original law prompted fears that significant curtailments to the independence of these bodies could hinder their effectiveness, alarming many Ukrainians and prompting thousands to fill the streets with demands for the bill’s cancellation. Demonstrators carried placards insisting on the respect for democratic processes, as criticism mounted over what some regarded as a potential slide into authoritarianism.
International concerns emerged as well, with Ukraine's Western allies voicing their apprehension. The European Commission reiterated that rule of law and anti-corruption are pivotal for Ukraine’s aspirations for EU membership. They expressed support for Zelensky's announcement, emphasizing collaboration to ensure that concerns regarding governance are addressed.
The establishment of Nabu and Sap in 2014-2015 was crucial for advancing Ukraine's relationship with the EU, with reforms being a precondition for easing visa restrictions. Opposition politicians, like MP Oleksiy Goncharenko, criticized Zelensky’s initial decision, questioning the need for legislative changes that jeopardized the institutions' independence in the first place.
In his statement, Zelensky did not mention the protests directly but acknowledged the importance of respecting the voice of the citizens who rallied for integrity within governance.
