Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, who ran on a promise to eliminate corruption, is now facing allegations that his government is targeting anti-corruption activists, critics, and agencies. The accusations suggest a worrying shift in the country’s political landscape, where the very forces that once propelled Zelensky to power are now under scrutiny.
President Zelensky was elected in 2019 on the back of a nationwide movement against systemic corruption. His campaign, which included a popular TV show highlighting the need for transparency and accountability, resonated strongly with Ukrainian citizens disillusioned with the ruling elite. The anti-corruption drive became a central pillar of his political platform, helping him secure a decisive victory in the election.
However, recent reports indicate that Zelensky’s government is now facing criticism for allegedly cracking down on those who once supported his campaign. This has raised concerns among both domestic and international observers, who fear that the anti-corruption efforts that initially propelled Zelensky’s rise may be giving way to a more centralized and potentially authoritarian approach.