Amid nationwide unrest triggered by his earlier decision to limit these agencies' powers, Zelensky clarified that the new proposal is intended to shield them from foreign threats, particularly from Russia. This development came after significant public protests erupted, with thousands taking to the streets across Ukraine expressing fears over the legislative changes. These modifications previously placed Nabu and Sap under the authority of Ukraine's prosecutor general—a position appointed by the president—prompting accusations of undermining democratic institutions.
Observers noted that Zelensky's original justification for the move involved concerns regarding Russian infiltration within the anti-corruption framework, especially following security service actions against suspected spies linked to Nabu. However, protests rapidly intensified, fueled by anxiety that the law would fundamentally weaken the fight against corruption.
The Ukrainian populace responded with large demonstrations, carrying signs demanding the repeal of the contentious legislation. Concurrently, international allies, particularly in the EU, expressed serious reservations about the law and its implications for Ukraine's European integration aspirations. The European Commission emphasized that maintaining the rule of law and combating corruption are vital components of EU membership.
In a statement on social media, Zelensky mentioned the importance of respecting public opinion but did not directly address the protests. Reflecting on the situation, opposition lawmaker Oleksiy Goncharenko criticized the president's apparent reversal, questioning the necessity of the previous legislative action if independence was now deemed essential.
As Ukraine navigates its path towards European Union membership, the reinstatement of anti-corruption institutions has emerged as a critical focal point for both domestic and international stakeholders, underscoring the ongoing struggle for accountability and governance amidst geopolitical tensions.
Observers noted that Zelensky's original justification for the move involved concerns regarding Russian infiltration within the anti-corruption framework, especially following security service actions against suspected spies linked to Nabu. However, protests rapidly intensified, fueled by anxiety that the law would fundamentally weaken the fight against corruption.
The Ukrainian populace responded with large demonstrations, carrying signs demanding the repeal of the contentious legislation. Concurrently, international allies, particularly in the EU, expressed serious reservations about the law and its implications for Ukraine's European integration aspirations. The European Commission emphasized that maintaining the rule of law and combating corruption are vital components of EU membership.
In a statement on social media, Zelensky mentioned the importance of respecting public opinion but did not directly address the protests. Reflecting on the situation, opposition lawmaker Oleksiy Goncharenko criticized the president's apparent reversal, questioning the necessity of the previous legislative action if independence was now deemed essential.
As Ukraine navigates its path towards European Union membership, the reinstatement of anti-corruption institutions has emerged as a critical focal point for both domestic and international stakeholders, underscoring the ongoing struggle for accountability and governance amidst geopolitical tensions.
