Mass Protest near Verkhovna Rada: Ukrainians Demand Restoration of NABU and SAP Autonomy
In the heart of Kyiv, near the Verkhovna Rada, a large-scale peaceful protest continues to gather hundreds of citizens voicing their discontent over the legal situation surrounding the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP).
Demonstrators gathered at a checkpoint in front of the parliament, holding signs with slogans such as “Vote for 13533.
Otherwise, fly to Rostov,” “Hands off NABU and SAP,” “Vote for sanity, don’t repeat the shame,” and “Together we are strong, they can’t defeat us.” Attendees also chant slogans like “Pass the law,” “Power belongs to the people,” “We see everything,” and “Shame!” During the rally, the Ukrainian national anthem is sung, and patriotic shouts of “Glory to Ukraine! – Heroes’ Glory!” are heard.
Police and security forces have heightened their presence to maintain order.
All this occurs as the Verkhovna Rada prepares to consider a bill aimed at restoring independence to NABU and SAP, thus enabling their complete reinstatement.
The context of these events begins with the July 22 adoption of Law No.
12414, which, through amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code, subordinated NABU and SAP to the decision of the General Prosecutor, sparking protests nationwide.
President Volodymyr Zelensky signed the law that same evening.
Responding to public opposition and concerns of international partners, he later submitted a bill to the Verkhovna Rada claiming it would reinforce the rule of law and safeguard the independence of anti-corruption institutions.
NABU officials assert that Zelensky’s proposed law aims to restore the full powers and guarantees of independence for both NABU and SAP, countering doubts about their autonomy.