Zelenskyy Enacts Controversial Anti-Corruption Bill Amid Nationwide Protests and EU Concerns
Zelenskyy Enacts Controversial Anti-Corruption Bill Amid Nationwide Protests and EU Concerns
KYIV, Ukraine – President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed into law a controversial bill that critics warn will significantly weaken Ukraine’s crucial anti-corruption infrastructure. The move, confirmed late Tuesday on the parliament’s website, immediately triggered widespread public outrage and nationwide protests, marking the first major demonstrations against the government in over three years of war.
Thousands gathered in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities on Tuesday, urging Zelenskyy to veto the legislation. The new law grants the prosecutor general increased authority over investigations handled by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), raising fears that their independence will be compromised, potentially giving the president’s circle greater sway over cases.
The legislation has drawn sharp criticism internationally, with EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos calling it “a serious step back.” Independent bodies like NABU and SAPO are considered essential for Ukraine’s bid to join the European Union and maintain access to vital Western aid. Transparency International’s Ukrainian branch also condemned the decision, warning it undermines significant reforms and damages trust with international partners.
Protesters, many carrying signs demanding a veto, expressed deep frustration, accusing the leadership of prioritizing personal connections over the fight against entrenched corruption, which they view as critical for Ukraine’s victory against Russia. The signing comes amidst a recent government reshuffle and the detention of two NABU officials on unrelated allegations, further fueling public concern over the state of democratic institutions during wartime.
Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.