Brussels: The European Union has expressed significant concern over a recent decision by Ukraine's parliament to strip independence from two key anti-corruption bodies. This decision involves the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO), which will now be under the direct supervision of the Prosecutor General, appointed by the president.
According to Deutsche Welle, the decision has prompted a wave of criticism both domestically and internationally, as it undermines essential safeguards for the independence of these bodies. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos voiced her apprehension on social media platform X, stating, "Seriously concerned over today's vote in the Rada. The dismantling of key safeguards protecting NABU's independence is a serious step back." Kos emphasized that the independence of these anti-corruption agencies is crucial for Ukraine's path towards EU membership.
The move by Ukrainian lawmakers comes amid Ukraine's ongoing efforts to accelerate its EU membership process, especially following Russia's 2022 invasion. The amendments to strip NABU and SAPO of their independence have been criticized by Ukrainian NGOs as well, with The Anti-Corruption Action Center arguing that these changes render the agencies ineffective. They voiced concerns that the Prosecutor General could potentially halt investigations involving allies of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
This development follows the arrest of a NABU employee on allegations of espionage for Russia, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. The EU's concerns highlight the delicate balance Ukraine must maintain between institutional integrity and its geopolitical ambitions.