Money was stolen, but they will receive “armor”: The Rada exempted bribe takers from mobilization

The Verkhovna Rada has adopted a bill that will increase penalties for corruption offenses. The document also includes a provision that excludes the possibility of mobilization of persons convicted of these crimes. This bill has been published on the official website of the parliament.

According to the new norms, sanctions for corruption actions are increased, and the procedures for bringing to justice violations in financial declarations and illicit enrichment are clarified. The law also provides for measures to restore public trust in state institutions.

As stated in the explanatory note, this law provides new foundations for criminal and administrative liability, optimizes pre-trial investigation, and determines the terms of data storage in the Register of Corrupt Persons, along with the conditions for their monitoring.

The document also amends Article 4 of the Law of Ukraine “On Military Duty and Military Service.” In particular, a new rule has been introduced that prohibits the conscription into the Armed Forces of persons accused of serious or severe corruption offenses, as well as those whose cases are under trial.

According to Article 335 of the Criminal Procedure Code, the court may suspend consideration of the case if the accused was mobilized and is undergoing military service during a special period until the moment of their release.

Currently, the court can only suspend proceedings in corruption cases if it is confirmed that the serviceman is physically unable to participate in court sessions (including online sessions) due to involvement in hostilities.