Both the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office of Ukraine (SAP) said they welcome Zelenskyy’s brand new bill submitted Thursday, which would return independence to their offices.
“A bill has been prepared based on the core principles of the independence of anti-corruption agencies. This bill includes new provisions aimed at protecting against influence by the Russian Federation — primarily in response to cases involving certain representatives of NABU,” Zelenskyy said.
Zelenskyy said that — although the new bill restores independence to SAP from the politically appointed general prosecutor — it introduces polygraph testing for all employees of anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies, including the National Police and the State Bureau of Investigations, who have relatives originating from or residing in Russia. NABU said the testing already exists.
The president also said he acted swiftly to calm protests that, according to Ukrainian spy agencies, risk being used by Russia to undermine Ukraine from within.
“Because the main challenge is the war. And the most important thing in this war is the unity of our state. It is critical not to lose the unity. To listen to people, to have dialogue, and so on,” Zelenskyy said.
“Anti-corruption agencies must be truly independent. At the same time, they must respond to society’s demand for justice. They must act effectively and oversee what is happening within their structures,” Zelenskyy added.