Zelensky faces backlash over law undermining Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies
Ukraine’s parliament has passed a new anti-corruption law that has sparked concern across Europe. Critics warn that it undermines the country's progress towards EU membership.
The legislation places both the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) under the control of the prosecutor general, an official appointed by president Zelensky. This is viewed as a significant setback for the independence of key anti-corruption bodies by the European Commission and several Western allies.
A serious step backwards
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen has requested an explanation from the Ukrainian government. Justice commissioner Michael McGrath reiterated that the law could undermine institutions considered to be the "cornerstones of the rule of law in Ukraine", which are vital for the country's EU accession process. Marta Kos, the commissioner for Enlargement, also expressed concern, describing the move as "a serious step backwards".
The new law follows years of Western pressure to establish independent anti-corruption bodies in the wake of Ukraine’s 2014 revolution. However, critics suspect that the rushed legislative change is intended to shield political elites from accountability.
The OECD and the G7 have expressed concern, warning that the flow of Western military and reconstruction aid could be jeopardised if the reform is not reversed.
Public protests
Despite martial law, the decision sparked rare public protests across several Ukrainian cities. Thousands took to the streets, demanding the law be reversed and accusing president Zelensky of reneging on his 2019 anti-corruption promises. In response, Zelensky pledged to present a new anti-corruption strategy soon and insisted that he had “heard society’s concerns”.
Following a meeting with the president, both NABU and SAPO have called for the restoration of their independence. The Ukrainian opposition is considering launching a legal challenge in the Constitutional Court. According to observers, this is the first significant domestic protest movement since the Russian invasion began in 2022.
© Andreas SOLARO / AFP
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