**Ukraine’s Parliament Votes to Limit Autonomy of Anti-Corruption Agencies**
In a move that has raised concerns among critics, Ukraine’s parliament has voted to tighten restrictions on two key anti-corruption agencies. The decision, made on Tuesday, aims to roll back the autonomy of institutions that have been at the forefront of the government’s reform programme.
**A Step Backwards for Anti-Corruption Efforts?**
The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office have been instrumental in investigating and prosecuting high-ranking officials suspected of corruption. These agencies have been a thorn in the side of corrupt officials, with recent allegations embarrassing senior government figures.
**More Control for the General Prosecutor**
Tuesday’s vote paves the way for the presidentially appointed general prosecutor to gain more control over NABU and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office. This move has sparked concerns among critics that it will undermine the independence of these agencies and compromise their mission.
**Criticism from NABU and European Commission**
NABU chief Semen Kryvonos urged President Volodymyr Zelenskiy not to sign the bill, which he described as an attempt to “destroy” Ukraine’s anti-corruption infrastructure. The European Commission also voiced concern about the consequences of Tuesday’s vote.
“These institutions are crucial to Ukraine’s reform agenda and must operate independently to fight corruption and maintain public trust,” said European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier. “Ukraine’s EU accession will require a strong capacity to combat corruption and to ensure institutional resilience.”
**The Importance of Independence**
The autonomy of anti-corruption agencies is crucial in the fight against corruption. By allowing them to operate independently, governments can ensure that investigations and prosecutions are carried out without undue influence or pressure.
**A Blow to Ukraine’s EU Aspirations?**
The move to limit the autonomy of NABU and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office has raised questions about Ukraine’s commitment to fighting corruption. The European Union has made it clear that corruption must be tackled if Ukraine is to join the bloc.
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