Zelensky Responds to Protests with New Anti-Corruption Bill

Amidst the largest protests since the war began, President Zelensky assures adjustments to safeguard Ukraine's fight against corruption.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the approval of a new draft law aimed at ensuring the independence of two crucial anti-corruption institutions in Ukraine, just days after widespread protests erupted across the nation. The protests were ignited by recent amendments that threatened the autonomy of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (Sap).

Zelensky’s statement on Thursday indicated a shift in gears, asserting that the new legislation is designed to protect these anti-corruption bodies from external influences, particularly from Russia. He described the bill as “balanced,” but opted not to share specific details about its content. Earlier this week, a law was enacted that placed Nabu and Sap under the authority of the prosecutor general, who is appointed by the president—a move that drew sharp criticism from both the public and international allies.

In response to the legislative changes, thousands of citizens took to the streets in multiple cities throughout Ukraine, displaying dissatisfaction and calls for the bill to be vetoed. Protesters voiced their concerns that this new law would significantly undermine the effectiveness of Nabu and Sap in combating corruption. Critics, including political commentators, accused Zelensky of democratic regression, amplifying worries when Western partners—including the European Commission—voiced their discontent over the situation.

As an official candidate for European Union membership, Ukraine’s adherence to rule of law and corruption-fighting measures are deemed paramount by EU leaders. Following the protests, a Commission spokesperson acknowledged the government's decision to reconsider the contentious bill, stating, "We are working with the Ukrainian government to ensure our concerns are taken into account."

Nabu and Sap were established between 2014 and 2015 as part of the conditions set by the European Commission and the International Monetary Fund to facilitate visa relaxation for Ukrainians traveling to the EU. Opposition MP Oleksiy Goncharenko questioned the rationale behind the legislative changes, remarking, “First we take it away, and then we say that it must be guaranteed. So why was all this necessary?"

In his comments on social media, Zelensky refrained from directly addressing the protests but reiterated the importance of considering the opinions of all Ukrainians and expressed gratitude to those who support Ukraine amid these ongoing challenges.