Verkhovna Rada approves decision threatening NAБУ’s independence: voting details and implications for anti-corruption efforts
Today, Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada made a move that could fundamentally change the legal landscape of the country's anti-corruption bodies. In the second reading, the parliament supported Bill No. 12414, securing 263 votes in favor. This legislation effectively abolishes the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NAБУ) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP). Such a development paves the way for the GenProcuroer Ruslan Kravchenko to assume control over these institutions, gaining increased authority in overseeing anti-corruption investigations. Civil society organizations and experts warn that this decision destroys the very foundations of independence for these agencies. According to the law, the Attorney General's head will have direct access to all criminal case materials, and will have the power to confiscate cases from NAБУ and transfer them to other investigative bodies. This consolidation of authority allows the Prosecutor General to influence investigation processes, challenge high-level suspicions, and even close cases concerning top officials. Since the appointment of the Prosecutor General is made by the president, this effectively grants a single individual unprecedented control over corruption investigations. Such centralization of power raises serious concerns about the future effectiveness of anti-corruption measures and the independence of judicial agencies. Experts argue that this law risks undermining Ukraine’s ability to fight corruption at the highest echelons and consolidates political influence over justice processes. The support for this legislation prompts fears about increased political meddling and a setback in efforts to establish transparent and accountable governance. Moving forward, the outcome of this decision may determine whether Ukraine can maintain the fragile independence of its law enforcement agencies or whether it will succumb to a new wave of political pressure and control over investigative bodies.