Ukraine passes bill weakening anti-corruption agencies
“Indeed, if this bill becomes a law, the head of SAPO will become a nominal figure, while Nabu will lose its independence and be transformed into the subdivision of the Office of the Attorney General,” agencies said in a joint press release on Telegram.
The bill goes to Zelenskyy for its signature or veto.
In an article on X, the EU enlargement commissioner Marta Kos spoke concerned about the vote in the rada, calling it “not serious”.
Kos added: “Independent organizations like Nabu and SAPO are essential for the EU EU path. The rule of law remains in the very center of EU membership negotiations.”
While the rallies took place during the war in Ukraine, they largely focused on the return of prisoners of war or missing persons. The demonstrations remain, however, a traditional form of public pressure in Ukraine, where two previous revolutions have been victorious for the public.
“Corruption is a problem in any country, and it must always be carried out,” said Ihor Lachenkov, a blogger and activist who urged people to join the demonstration via his social media platforms, which reach more than 1.5 million followers.
“Ukraine has much less resources than Russia in this war,” he said. “If we abuse them, or worse, allow them to find themselves in the pockets of thieves, our chances of victory decrease. All our resources must go to the fight. “
The Ukrainian branch of Transparency International criticized the decision of the Parliament, saying that it undermines one of the most important reforms since Ukraine called its revolution of dignity in 2014 and damages trust with international partners.
The group has urged Zelenskyy to veto the law, warning that otherwise it would share responsibility with the rada to “dismantle the anti-corruption infrastructure of Ukraine”.
Many demonstrators wore panels indicating “veto the law”, “protect the anti-corruption system, protecting the future of Ukraine” or simply “we are against.”
The atmosphere of anger and frustration among the privileged Ukrainians prevailed in the crowd. Some demonstrators have accused Ukraine management of prioritizing loyalty and personal ties on the fight against corruption.
“Those who have sworn to protect the laws and the constitution have rather chosen to protect their inner circle, even to the detriment of Ukrainian democracy,” said veteran Oleh Symoroz, sitting in a wheelchair because his two legs were cut after being injured in 2022.
“Instead of giving an example of zero tolerance for corruption, the president uses his power to take control of criminal affairs involving his allies,” he said.
On Monday, the internal security agency of Ukraine arrested two officials of the Nabu suspected of links with Russia and searched other employees of the agency on unrelated allegations.
The Zelenskyy office did not respond to a request for comments. Last week, the president made a reshuffle of his cabinet in wartime, a decision widely considered as a greater power of consolidation in his inner circle.
