Zelensky Reverses Course on Anti-Corruption Law Amid Nationwide Protests

In response to backlash over changes that threatened anti-corruption bodies' freedom, Ukrainian President Zelensky proposes new legislation to reinforce their independence, highlighting the impact of public protest and international concern.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reversed his stance on contentious legislative reforms impacting key anti-corruption agencies, amid widespread public demonstrations and pressure from international allies. This shift comes just days after nationwide protests erupted in response to recent amendments that aimed to limit the independence of Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (Nabu) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (Sap).

Zelensky has now submitted a draft bill intended to preserve the autonomy of these institutions, asserting that the new legislation is designed to shield them from external pressures, particularly from Russian influence. He described the bill as "well-balanced," though he did not elaborate on its specifics. Nabu confirmed that the proposed legislation would restore its procedural powers and guarantees of independence.

Previously, a law passed earlier in the week placed Nabu and Sap under the jurisdiction of Ukraine’s prosecutor general, an appointment made by the presidential office. Zelensky had defended these changes by citing concerns over Russian infiltration, coinciding with recent operations by Ukraine’s security services investigating alleged spy networks.

The swift passage of the legislation sparked unprecedented protests across Ukraine, described as the largest since the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022. Thousands of citizens took to the streets, raising placards demanding the veto of the controversial law, in a clear demonstration of discontent with the perceived erosion of democratic norms.

Western allies expressed their alarm regarding the implications of the law, as Ukraine aspires to deepen ties with the EU. A spokesperson for European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the importance of the rule of law and corruption-fighting measures as prerequisites for Ukraine's EU membership prospects. Following Zelensky's announcement of the new bill, the Commission welcomed the government's actions, confirming their collaboration to ensure concerns are addressed.

Opposition figures have criticized Zelensky for what they term a backslide in democratic governance, questioning the rationale behind the initial withdrawal of powers from the anti-corruption agencies. Oleksiy Goncharenko, an opposition MP, highlighted the contradiction in stripping independence only to advocate for its restoration later.

While acknowledging the importance of public sentiment, Zelensky's comments did not directly address the protests or the backlash stemming from his earlier decisions. Nevertheless, he affirmed the value of every Ukrainian's opinion, expressing gratitude to those who support the nation's ongoing efforts against corruption.