Zelenskyy MPs balk at restoring anti-corruption bodies over “revenge” fears - FT

Zelenskyy MPs balk at restoring anti-corruption bodies over “revenge” fears - FT

Kyiv, Ukraine, July 2, 2025 — President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's proposal to restore the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies, NABU and SAPO, has sparked resistance from some members of parliament, who fear political retribution [1]. The draft legislation, submitted by Zelenskyy on July 24, aims to reverse recent measures that granted the Prosecutor General's Office more control over these agencies [2].

The bill, which was hurriedly passed on Tuesday, faced immediate backlash. Thousands of Ukrainians took to the streets in protest, with some even violating the nighttime curfew imposed due to ongoing Russian drone and missile strikes. The European Commission warned that the move could undermine Ukraine's bid to join the EU, while Transparency International's Ukraine branch described it as a "massive setback" in anti-corruption reform [2].

Zelenskyy's allies, including members of his Servant of the People party, have framed the measures as necessary to root out Russian influence within the anti-corruption bodies. However, critics argue that the move is an attempt to consolidate power and stifle dissent [2].

Some MPs, including those from the Opposition Platform – For Life party, have expressed concern over the potential consequences of the bill. Oleksandr Merezhko, a member of Zelenskyy's party and the chair of the parliament's foreign affairs committee, admitted to having "some doubts" about the content of the legislation. He noted that European counterparts are worried about the implications for Ukraine's EU membership negotiations [2].

The bill's passage has also raised concerns about an anti-democratic power grab by Zelenskyy and his inner circle. A former Ukrainian official, who asked not to be identified, suggested that the move is part of a broader trend of corruption and lack of professional management, which is hindering Ukraine's war effort [2].

Despite the pushback, Zelenskyy has maintained that the bill is necessary to ensure the "inevitability of punishment" for those who go against the law. He has also promised to address the concerns of the public and work on a joint plan to strengthen Ukraine's institutions [2].

References:
[1] Reuters. "Agencies express support, expect swift vote." July 24, 2025. https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/zelenskiy-introduces-bill-uphold-independence-ukraines-anti-graft-bodies-2025-07-24/
[2] ABC News. "Zelenskyy faces major anti-corruption protests in Ukraine." July 22, 2025. https://abcnews.go.com/International/zelenskyy-faces-major-anti-corruption-protests-ukraine-prepares/story?id=123987847