Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed into law a highly contentious bill that significantly weakens the country's anti-corruption bodies, despite facing massive public protests and criticism from international allies.
The legislation, approved on Monday, strips key powers from Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and other oversight agencies that were established after the 2014 Maidan revolution to combat systemic graft.
Public Outcry and Demonstrations
Thousands of Ukrainians took to the streets of Kyiv in protest following the bill's passage, with many demonstrators carrying banners reading "No to Corruption" and "Hands Off NABU". The protests continued for several days, with organisers vowing to maintain pressure on the government.
International Concerns
The move has raised serious concerns among Ukraine's Western partners, particularly as the country continues its fight against Russian aggression. Anti-corruption reforms have been a key condition for international financial support and potential EU membership negotiations.
"This decision risks undermining years of progress in building transparent institutions," warned a spokesperson for the European Commission.
Government Justification
Officials from Zelenskyy's administration argue the changes are necessary to streamline anti-corruption efforts and eliminate duplicate functions between agencies. They insist the reforms won't weaken Ukraine's fight against graft.
However, anti-corruption activists and opposition politicians allege the move represents a dangerous rollback of democratic reforms that could enable the return of oligarchic influence over government institutions.
