Zelensky Limits Independence of Anti-Corruption Agencies

(MENAFN) The Ukrainian Parliament has decided to terminate the autonomy of the nation’s anti-corruption bodies, sparking international criticism and widespread demonstrations throughout the country.

On Tuesday, the Verkhovna Rada passed a law that subjects the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) to executive control.

Opponents of the measure reportedly shouted “shame!” as the vote results were announced.

Later the same day, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky endorsed the bill by signing it into law.

This legislative action followed closely on the heels of a raid by the country’s domestic security service on NABU’s headquarters, during which two investigators were detained.

The raids raised alarms among G7 ambassadors, who declared they were closely observing the developments.

Anti-corruption campaigners described the timing of these events as intentional. According to the NGO Anti-Corruption Action Center, “This is about silencing NABU and SAPO as they close in on Zelensky’s inner circle.”

The bill was put forward by deputies from Zelensky’s governing party.

Originally, the legislation aimed to amend Ukraine’s criminal code under martial law, but last-minute changes targeting the anti-corruption organizations were added before its approval.

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