Mayors and Regional Council Heads Face Criminal Liability Under New Ukrainian Bill.

Amendments to Ukraine's Criminal Code

According to Novyny.live: The Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers has proposed amendments to the Criminal and Criminal Procedure Codes, specifically clarifying which local government officials can be held criminally liable. The bill was initiated by the Cabinet and prepared by Ukraine's National Agency on Civil Service (NADS). This move is part of a broader anti-corruption drive that has been a key focus for Ukraine in recent years.

Clarifying Liability and Enhancing Transparency

The proposed changes concern criminal liability for receiving or demanding an unlawful benefit, as regulated by Article 368 of Ukraine's Criminal Code. The law will take effect six months after its official publication, but no earlier than half a year after the end or cancellation of martial law.

Under the Cabinet's proposal, the heads of regional councils, their deputies, and city mayors—including those of Kyiv, Sevastopol, and Simferopol—are classified as elected officials. This clarification is a significant step toward increasing transparency and accountability within Ukraine's system of local self-government.

These amendments reflect the Ukrainian government's intent to strengthen oversight of local officials and prevent corrupt practices. Given the current political and economic climate, such measures could help restore public trust in local authorities and improve the overall rule of law situation in the country.