Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he has submitted a draft law to reinstate the freedom of two anti-corruption bodies in Ukraine – days after nationwide protests broke out over changes curbing their independence.
Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (Sap), and to protect them from Russian influence. The law passed earlier this week brought Nabu and Sap under the control of the prosecutor general, who is appointed by the president.
The day before, Ukraine’s security services had carried out searches and arrests, targeting alleged Russian spies at the agency, reports BBC News.
At the time, Zelensky justified his decision to curtail the bodies’ powers by citing Russian influence.
The passing of the legislation instantly sparked the largest protests since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022 in several cities across Ukraine, with many worrying the law would severely undermine the Nabu and Sap’s authority and effectiveness.
Thousands of people gathered in streets and squares across Ukraine, holding placards calling for the legislation to be vetoed.
Several commentators accused Zelensky of democratic lapses. Their concerns were further intensified when Ukraine’s Western partners signalled their displeasure with the bill.
Ukraine has official EU candidate status and a spokesman for European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen had previously warned Kyiv that the rule of law and the fight against corruption were “core elements” of membership to the bloc.
Yesterday, the Commission said it “welcomed” the Ukrainian government’s decision to take action against the bill.
The creation of Nabu and Sap in 2014-15 was one of the requirements set by the European Commission and the International Monetary Fund to move towards a relaxation of visa restrictions between Ukraine and the EU.
