Poland’s leader defends rule of law amidst Constitutional Tribunal standoff

The dispute stems from a deadlock over the appointment of new judges to the Tribunal, leading to a direct confrontation with President Karol Nawrocki, who attempted to enter the Tribunal building on Friday night. Police were present as the event unfolded publicly, drawing international attention.

Tusk condemned the events as “scandalous incidents,” expressing hope they would not be repeated. He emphasized that restoring order could not involve accepting lawlessness. “A democratic state has to be strong and capable of enforcing justice,” he stated.

The conflict over the Constitutional Tribunal began in 2015, initially concerning the appointment of judges and evolving into a broader struggle over judicial independence and the Tribunal’s authority. Tusk asserted that his government’s attempts at resolution were blocked by the PiS party and the president.

He explained that the Sejm, Poland’s lower house of parliament, elected new judges, who took their oaths, but President Nawrocki refused to formally receive them, while Tribunal President Bogdan Święczkowski prevented them from assuming their duties. Tusk insisted the newly elected judges are legally appointed and have faced attacks.

Tusk criticized politicians and activists associated with the PiS and the far-right Confederation party. He compared the situation to an accusation of violence after an attempt to recover stolen property. “In certain matters there can be no compromise,” he declared.

The Prime Minister also cautioned against the potential for pro-Russian groups to exploit the political turmoil, citing the activity of online bots seemingly supporting those opposing Poland’s constitutional order. He pledged to ensure the Tribunal operates independently and to provide it with necessary security. The speech did not include specific plans for resolving the dispute with the president.