Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has moved to restore autonomy to two key anti-corruption institutions following widespread protests and international pressure. The decision comes just days after controversial legislation placed the agencies under direct government oversight, sparking the largest demonstrations since Russia’s full-scale invasion began.
Earlier this week, lawmakers approved a measure bringing the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) under the authority of the prosecutor general—a presidential appointee. The move triggered immediate backlash, with critics warning it would weaken Ukraine’s fight against graft, a critical issue as the country seeks closer ties with the European Union.
Zelensky initially defended the changes, citing concerns over Russian infiltration within the agencies. However, after days of public unrest and sharp criticism from Western allies, he introduced a new draft law to reinstate their independence. While details remain unclear, officials claim the revised legislation ensures both bodies can operate without political interference.
The reversal follows warnings from EU leaders, who stressed that anti-corruption reforms are essential for Ukraine’s membership aspirations. The European Commission welcomed the latest development but emphasized the need for further safeguards.
Opposition figures questioned the abrupt policy shift, with one lawmaker asking why the government had dismantled the agencies’ autonomy only to hastily restore it. Zelensky, in a public statement, did not directly address the protests but emphasized the importance of unity amid the ongoing war.
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between security concerns and democratic governance as Ukraine continues its push for Western integration. The initial legislation had raised fears of democratic backsliding, with analysts warning that undermining anti-corruption efforts could jeopardize international support.
NABU and SAPO were established nearly a decade ago as part of Ukraine’s commitments to the EU and IMF. Their independence has been seen as crucial in tackling systemic corruption, a persistent challenge for the country.
The protests mark a rare display of public dissent since the war began, underscoring the high stakes of anti-corruption reforms in Ukraine’s future.
