Ukraine's political landscape is erupting in protests following President Volodymyr Zelensky's controversial decision to sign a law that compromises the independence of two critical anti-corruption agencies, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP).
Backlash Intensifies as Zelensky Curbs Anti-Corruption Agencies' Independence
Backlash Intensifies as Zelensky Curbs Anti-Corruption Agencies' Independence
Ukraine faces public outrage after president Zelensky limits powers of key anti-corruption institutions, risking EU ties.
Thousands of demonstrators filled Kyiv for two consecutive nights, holding signs and chanting against the government, which they accuse of reverting to corrupt practices reminiscent of the Viktor Yanukovych era. The new legislation allows the prosecutor general, appointed by the president, to exert influence over NABU and SAP, raising fears that it severely undermines their effectiveness. This move follows Zelensky's claims that the agencies had stalled critical criminal investigations and needed "cleansing" from Russian influence.
As a response to the outcry, Zelensky indicated that he would submit a new bill to parliament, although he refrained from sharing specific details. This gesture comes amid significant apprehension from Ukraine's Western allies, who view this law as a major setback for Ukraine’s journey toward EU integration—an effort that has been ongoing since the 2014 anti-government protests ousted Yanukovych.
The protests, which have become the largest anti-government demonstrations since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, spotlight a growing distrust among Ukrainians regarding their government’s commitment to combating corruption. Activists warn that the legislation threatens Ukraine's aspirations for closer ties with Europe, a connection for which many citizens feel they are currently paying a steep price due to ongoing Russian aggression.
The current low ranking of Ukraine on Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index—105 out of 180—belies the progress made since NABU and SAP's establishment. However, with these institutions now under presidential oversight, concerns loom over potential political interference in their operations. The legislation has been labeled as “scandalous” by local outlets, warning it could halt Ukraine's momentum toward democratic governance.
Protests are expected to escalate, with citizens prepared to voice their opposition against both external threats from Russia and perceived authoritarianism at home. Amid this tumult, prominent war veteran Masi Nayem declared his participation in protests an obligation to honor those who have suffered and fight for Ukraine's democratic future. The outcry for accountability and a steadfast fight against corruption continues to resonate throughout the nation as talks between Russia and Ukraine commence in Istanbul.
As a response to the outcry, Zelensky indicated that he would submit a new bill to parliament, although he refrained from sharing specific details. This gesture comes amid significant apprehension from Ukraine's Western allies, who view this law as a major setback for Ukraine’s journey toward EU integration—an effort that has been ongoing since the 2014 anti-government protests ousted Yanukovych.
The protests, which have become the largest anti-government demonstrations since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, spotlight a growing distrust among Ukrainians regarding their government’s commitment to combating corruption. Activists warn that the legislation threatens Ukraine's aspirations for closer ties with Europe, a connection for which many citizens feel they are currently paying a steep price due to ongoing Russian aggression.
The current low ranking of Ukraine on Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index—105 out of 180—belies the progress made since NABU and SAP's establishment. However, with these institutions now under presidential oversight, concerns loom over potential political interference in their operations. The legislation has been labeled as “scandalous” by local outlets, warning it could halt Ukraine's momentum toward democratic governance.
Protests are expected to escalate, with citizens prepared to voice their opposition against both external threats from Russia and perceived authoritarianism at home. Amid this tumult, prominent war veteran Masi Nayem declared his participation in protests an obligation to honor those who have suffered and fight for Ukraine's democratic future. The outcry for accountability and a steadfast fight against corruption continues to resonate throughout the nation as talks between Russia and Ukraine commence in Istanbul.
