Current Tensions Surrounding NAБУ and SAP Independence: Potential Consequences of Prosecutor General’s Interventions
The issue of safeguarding the independence of Ukraine's National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NAБУ) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP) remains a critical concern for Ukrainian politics and society today.
Recent months have seen increasing tensions between their leadership and the General Prosecutor's Office, especially regarding possible interference by Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko.
It is essential to recognize that any illegal interference from authorities into these anti-corruption bodies could have devastating consequences for Ukraine’s anti-corruption efforts.
According to Semen Kryvonos, director of NAБУ, the Prosecutor General has not yet approached their agency with requests to transfer cases under law №12414, nor has he taken any decisions to do so.
This indicates that the situation remains stable for now.
However, any attempts at meddling, such as demanding the transfer of cases, could be disastrous, as these cases contain sensitive information about whistleblowers, undercover activities, and evidence of illegal conduct.
Kryvonos urged prosecutors to refrain from such actions, emphasizing that any plans to transfer cases will be publicly disclosed immediately.
The political climate surrounding amendments to laws affecting NAБУ and SAP continues to be tense, with mass protests in major cities like Kyiv reflecting widespread public disapproval of the recent legislative changes.
After the controversial law №12414, which effectively undermines the independence of anti-corruption institutions, the President promised to introduce a new bill ensuring true independence and protection from external interference.
Meanwhile, experts warn that the current legislative landscape creates loopholes that may be exploited by top corrupt officials, especially with the involvement of the Prosecutor General.
At this stage, it is crucial to monitor the developments closely and maintain an objective stance, to understand the full implications of these changes for Ukraine’s anti-corruption fight.