A women chants while holding a banner that reads "corruption applauds" during a protest against a law targeting anti-corruption institute in central kyiv, Ukraine , Tuesday, 22 July , 2025.
Public Anger Spills into the Streets
Thousands of Ukrainians marched through Kyiv and other major cities on Tuesday. Their demand was clear—stop a bill that could weaken Ukraine’s anti-corruption efforts. It marked the largest protest since the war began over three years ago.
Despite the public outcry, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed the bill into law. The legislation, published on parliament’s official website late Tuesday, sparked immediate backlash.
A Direct Threat to Anti-Corruption Agencies
The new law allows the prosecutor general to interfere with cases handled by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO). Critics say this change severely undermines both agencies’ independence.
In a joint statement on Telegram, NABU and SAPO warned of a looming collapse. “If this bill becomes law, the head of SAPO becomes symbolic. NABU turns into a branch of the prosecutor general’s office.”
EU Officials Voice Concern
Marta Kos, the EU’s Enlargement Commissioner, expressed alarm. On social platform X, she called the move “a serious step back.”
She emphasized that independent bodies like NABU and SAPO are essential to Ukraine’s path to European Union membership. “Rule of law,” she added, “is central to EU accession talks.”
Why the Law Matters Now
Ukraine is locked in a deadly war with Russia and heavily relies on Western aid. Anti-corruption reforms are a key condition for maintaining that support. Many citizens believe the timing of the bill sends the wrong message to Ukraine’s international partners.
Transparency International Ukraine, a watchdog group, said the law threatens one of the most important reforms since the 2014 Revolution of Dignity. The organization urged Zelenskyy to veto the bill, warning that he would share the blame for dismantling Ukraine’s anti-corruption system.
A Nation Speaks Out
Protesters gathered under banners that read “Veto the law,” “Protect Ukraine’s future,” and “We are against it.” The tone was serious and emotional. Many felt betrayed.
Blogger and activist Ihor Lachenkov used his platform—reaching over 1.5 million followers—to mobilize the protest. “If we waste our limited resources, or worse, let them fall into corrupt hands, we lose our chance at victory,” he warned.
Veterans and Activists Raise Alarms
Oleh Symoroz, a war veteran who lost both legs in combat, spoke passionately from his wheelchair. “Those who vowed to uphold the Constitution now protect their allies,” he said. “Instead of showing zero tolerance for corruption, the president is using power to shield his inner circle.”
Others echoed the same frustration. Some accused Ukraine’s leadership of putting personal loyalty above public accountability.
A Cabinet Reshuffle and Growing Distrust
Last week, Zelenskyy reshuffled his Cabinet—a move critics say tightens control around his close allies. Meanwhile, on Monday, Ukraine’s domestic security agency detained two NABU officials over alleged ties to Russia. Several other agency members were also searched on unrelated issues.
The president’s office has remained silent. No official response has been given regarding the signing of the bill or the growing unrest.
Protests Rekindle Ukraine’s Revolutionary Spirit
While recent demonstrations in wartime Ukraine have focused on prisoners or missing persons, this protest feels different. It recalls the spirit of earlier revolutions—fueled by a desire for justice and integrity.
As one protester shouted, “This is about our future, our freedom, and our fight against corruption.” That sentiment echoed throughout the crowd.
For many, the battle is no longer just against Russian missiles—but against political decisions they fear could derail the country’s future.
