Judge Łubowski resigns, will no longer issue European Arrest Warrants. What next for the prosecution of Ziobro?
Judge Dariusz Łubowski, the only judge in Warsaw issuing European Arrest Warrants, has resigned from his role, raising concerns about the future of the prosecution of Zbigniew Ziobro.
Dariusz Łubowski has announced his resignation from handling cases related to European Arrest Warrants (ENA) at the Warsaw District Court, effective February 16, 2026. As the only judge in the capital responsible for these warrants since 2018, he played a crucial role in the court's dealings with extradition requests and foreign claims for the extradition of foreigners. His sudden departure raises questions about the continuity of proceedings, particularly concerning high-profile cases, such as that of Zbigniew Ziobro.
Łubowski's resignation follows his recent dismissal from his position as head of the international criminal section of the court by Chief Justice Beata Najjar, who cited a loss of trust in his abilities as the official reason. This loss of confidence was linked to discussions within the court's leadership regarding the handling of sensitive cases, which could impact judicial decisions in politically charged situations. The implications of his resignation could significantly affect ongoing judicial processes in the country, especially regarding prominent politicians like Ziobro.
The timing of the resignation and the circumstances surrounding it have prompted speculation about the independence of the judiciary in Poland and its susceptibility to political pressures. Judge Łubowski's unique role had previously placed him at the intersection of law and politics, and his exit might create a vacuum in a critical area of judicial oversight. As the court navigates this transition, the future of ENA requests, and the potential prosecution of Ziobro remain uncertain, highlighting the challenges facing Poland's judicial system amid ongoing political tensions.