Zelenskyy approves new draft law to safeguard anti-corruption agencies

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on July 24 that he has approved the text of a new draft law aimed at reinforcing the independence of the country’s anti-corruption institutions and protecting the law enforcement system from Russian interference.

"The draft law ensures real strengthening of the law enforcement system in Ukraine, the independence of anti-corruption agencies, and reliable protection of the law enforcement system from any Russian influence or interference," Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram, Caliber.Az reports.

According to Zelenskyy, the text of the draft law is well-balanced. 

“Most importantly – real tools, no Russian ties, and independence for NABU [National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine] and SAPO [Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office]," he wrote. 

The president said the bill would be submitted to the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, the same day.

"It is important that we preserve unity. It is important that we preserve independence. It is important that we respect the position of all Ukrainians and are grateful to everyone who stands with Ukraine," Zelenskyy added.

Zelenskyy's announcement came just a day after mass protests erupted in Kyiv over a law signed by the president on July 22. According to ABC, thousands of people gathered outside the presidential office on the evening of July 23 despite a nighttime curfew and the ongoing threat of Russian drone and missile attacks.

The demonstrators voiced opposition to the recently enacted legislation that places NABU and SAPO under the control of the Prosecutor General's Office (PGO). The prosecutor general is appointed by the president, sparking fears among critics and civil society groups that the law could compromise the independence of Ukraine’s top anti-corruption bodies by increasing presidential influence.

In response to the backlash, Zelenskyy pledged to submit a new bill that would ensure genuine autonomy for NABU and SAPO.

By Sabina Mammadli