"I want to thank the parliamentarians for passing this bill. I have just signed it into law, and the content will be published immediately," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced today. "The new law ensures that anti-corruption bodies and law enforcement agencies can operate normally and independently."

The Ukrainian parliament passed the bill restoring independence to the anti-corruption bodies with 331 votes in favor and none against. The vote was broadcast live for the first time since the war with Russia began.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Rome, Italy, 10/6. Photo: AFP

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Rome, Italy, 10/6. Photo: AFP

President Zelensky submitted the bill to parliament on 24/7, two days after controversially revoking the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). NABU investigates corruption cases within state agencies, while SAPO is responsible for prosecuting corruption.

The decision to revoke NABU and SAPO's independence drew strong criticism. Critics argued that it would consolidate power in President Zelensky's hands, and protests erupted in Kyiv. European officials warned that the move could hinder Kyiv's efforts to join the European Union (EU).

Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said the vote on the new bill was "a clear response to the expectations of the Ukrainian people and our European partners."

European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier said the law Zelensky signed restored key safeguards for anti-corruption bodies, but noted "much work remains."

"The EU accession process requires Ukraine to continuously strengthen its anti-corruption capacity and ensure the rule of law. We expect Ukraine to quickly and fully implement these commitments," Mercier said.

Nhu Tam (AFP, Kyiv Independent)