The amendments proposed by Lozovoy, which are unpopular with anti-corruption bodies, are once again in the spotlight. For several years, they have obstructed investigations, particularly regarding corruption cases, and hindered the fight against crime in Ukraine.
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SubscribeThese amendments, introduced by MP Andrey Lozovoy in 2017, have effectively created barriers for the work of NABU and SAP, as well as for the extradition of suspects abroad. European partners have long demanded their repeal, with a deadline for compliance set for the end of December 2024.
However, unfortunately, the Verkhovna Rada has not managed to vote for their cancellation.
About this, reported Elena Shcherban, head of the legal department at the Anti-Corruption Action Center, during a broadcast on Ukrainian Radio.
What are the amendments?
- One of the most controversial provisions is the requirement to close criminal cases if the investigation is delayed by even one day.
- In addition, the amendments introduced the obligation to conduct medical examinations only by court order.
It was believed that these changes were aimed at protecting the interests of suspects, including those connected to the political elite. For example, these amendments allowed individuals such as MPs Onishchenko and Martynenko, as well as the son of the Minister of Internal Affairs Arsen Avakov, to evade responsibility.
Some of these amendments have already been repealed, but the remaining ones still obstruct the investigation of corruption and economic crimes. This is particularly evident in major cases, such as the "Rotterdam Plus" case, where state losses amount to billions of hryvnias.
However, as practice shows, the parliament is not in a hurry to meet EU demands
Why? It's quite simple: more than 50 deputies in the current parliament are suspected of corruption. And, as one might guess, no one is eager to abolish amendments that could serve as their salvation. If the "Lozovoy amendments" remain in effect, their use allows for manipulation of investigation timelines and, consequently, the closure of important cases, even when evidence exists.
Against this backdrop, other issues have also become relevant. For instance, SAP's demands to empower its head to sign requests for the extradition of suspects who have fled abroad. This is crucial because extradition can be blocked due to political motives. However, even these proposals do not find support in parliament.
One way or another, the fight against corruption in Ukraine continues to face political resistance. Anti-corruption bodies, unfortunately, are struggling with a lack of personnel and resources for effective operation.
While corruption issues remain on the agenda, the decision to eliminate the "Lozovoy amendments" is once again postponed – all against the backdrop of international demands and promises to improve the situation.