Kyiv, Aug 8 (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently reversed his decision on a law that threatened the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption agencies following widespread protests. These demonstrations posed a significant test to his leadership, marking the first major challenge since Russia's invasion.
Despite the law's reversal, the impact on Zelenskyy's image may be more enduring. His decision followed years of public discontent concerning his entourage, with several inner circle members facing corruption allegations. However, the Ukrainian public has largely supported their president, trusting him to lead the defense against the Kremlin while tolerating certain civil liberties being curtailed during wartime.
The protests demonstrated the limits of this goodwill, with critics arguing that the president's expedited approval of the law went too far. Tetiana Shevchuk, a board member of the Anti-Corruption Action Centre, noted that while citizens support Zelenskyy's handling of war efforts, their previous trust in his handling of internal matters has been compromised. Recent polls reflect this sentiment, with a significant drop in Zelenskyy's approval ratings.
Both a Gallup poll and a survey by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology highlighted diminished trust in Zelenskyy, particularly after the law was signed. These polls were conducted in regions under Ukrainian control.
Zelenskyy's initial move to weaken the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) was supposed to counter Russian influence, though no evidence was presented to substantiate this claim. The swift passage of the bill left many lawmakers claiming they had insufficient time to review it, causing patience among Ukrainians to fray.
Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion, the Ukrainian public showed patience, accepting martial law and election delays. However, the consolidation of presidential powers has raised concerns about democratic integrity. Allegations against members of Zelenskyy's inner circle amplified public frustration, leading to significant anti-corruption protests in July.
Shevchuk noted that the protests were a cumulative expression of discontent, emphasizing red lines the public urged the government not to cross. Public opinion has been crucial since the Euromaidan protests in 2013-2014, which ushered major political change in Ukraine. Zelenskyy typically aligns his actions with public sentiment, keenly monitoring polls.
Particular suspicion surrounds Andriy Yermak, head of Zelenskyy's presidential office, whom activists and officials accuse of wielding undue influence. Recent allegations against close associates of Zelenskyy further fueled public outrage. Former Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Chernyshov became a corruption suspect, while businessman Tymur Mindich, linked to drone production, faced potential charges.
Shevchuk emphasized the public's dual support for Zelenskyy's war efforts and scrutiny over corruption within his inner circle. Demonstrators reminded the president that power should not shield corruption.
Lawmaker Oleksandr Merezhko acknowledged that the backlash affected the blind trust in Zelenskyy-backed bills. Previously, legislation supported by Zelenskyy faced minimal opposition. Merezhko admitted that he and his colleagues voted on the bill without fully understanding it, trusting in the president's direction.
Acknowledging communication failures, Zelenskyy conceded the need for dialogue concerning the law. The once-firm trust in Zelenskyy's decisions has waned, with Parliament now showing more independence and caution in supporting the president's proposals. Nevertheless, Zelenskyy's quick reversal and the subsequent passage of a bill restoring the independence of NABU and SAPO demonstrated responsiveness to public demands.
Western allies also voiced concerns over the law, fearing it could jeopardize support for Ukraine and its EU membership aspirations. The swift reversal was welcomed by international partners, restoring some lost trust.
In a recent call, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Zelenskyy stressed the importance of independent anti-corruption institutions for Ukraine's democracy. Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul expressed relief at the reversal, calling it essential for regaining trust.
Curiously, U.S. President Donald Trump has remained silent on the matter, a rarity given his frequent commentary on global affairs.
GSP
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