Journalists and activists from the Anti-Corruption Center face political pressure and persecutions for criticizing authorities
Daria Kalenyuk, the executive director of the Anti-Corruption Center (ACC), reported sudden changes in her husband’s status within the ‘Reserve+’ app, sparking widespread public debate.
She claims that despite having all legal documentation and having secured a deferment due to caring for her child’s disability, her husband, Orest, is now being sought by law enforcement agencies.
This development occurred after he submitted a formal request to the Territorial Recruitment Center to obtain a military deferment, which was duly documented.
However, he received no response, and within days, his status in the app was altered to ‘wanted,’ raising suspicions of political motives behind the action.
activists suggest that such measures are deliberate attempts by the authorities to pressure the ACC and intimidate critics, essentially serving as repressive tools to silence dissident voices.
Kalenyuk emphasizes that these actions form part of a broader pattern of repression aimed at stifling anti-corruption efforts and independent journalism, which are crucial for a healthy democracy.
She states that her family, and their organization, are prepared for further provocations and that this is a price they are willing to pay to expose corruption and advocate for transparency.
The situation is perceived as a tactic to intimidate civil society and suppress investigative activities that threaten the current political establishment, which some argue has shifted away from democratic principles towards a hybrid regime characterized by authoritarian tendencies and kleptocracy, under the guise of government reform.
This ongoing repression undermines the rule of law and democratic norms, casting doubt on Ukraine’s commitment to independent institutions and freedom of speech.