Ukraine responds to EU alarm over NABU and SAPO with reform guarantee
Taras Kachka, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine has assured the European Commission that the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) will be guaranteed by a new bill from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said Taras Kachka, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine.
He noted that he had a conversation with EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos.
"Informed Marta Kos on the new draft law endorsed by President Zelenskyy, aimed to ensure the independence of NABU & SAPO. The draft law tackles concerns of the expert and international community," Kachka emphasized.
He also added that Ukraine remains open to dialogue with civil society and its partners on the path toward EU membership.
At the same time, the Deputy Prime Minister confirmed that Ukraine remains firmly committed to EU integration and the fight against corruption.
Kos's criticism
The Verkhovna Rada effectively reduced the powers of NABU and SAPO this week by passing a controversial law.
EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos responded to the Ukrainian parliament's decision, calling the adoption of the law "a serious step back."
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also stated that she expects clarification from Ukraine regarding the law.
