The Polish government is facing potential presidential veto regarding the newly passed amendments to the KRS law, which aim to reform judicial appointments and ensure greater independence from political interference.
On January 23, the Polish Sejm approved the amendments to the KRS (National Judiciary Council) law, followed by the Senate's approval on January 28. The final step in the legislative process is the president's signature; however, reports suggest that President Karol Nawrocki may consider exercising his veto power. This development has created significant anticipation regarding the future of judicial independence in Poland.
The KRS reform is deemed a critical initiative by the Ministry of Justice, as it proposes significant alterations in the selection of council members. A core aspect of the reform is the removal of the Sejm's authority to elect judges to the KRS, a move aiming to enhance the council's independence and decrease political influence. Instead, the new regulations allow judges themselves to determine the composition of the council, thereby attempting to fortify the integrity of the judiciary.
The restructured council will consist of a defined number of representatives from various levels of the judiciary, including six judges from district courts, three judges from regional courts, and two from the Supreme Court. This change has sparked debates among legal professionals and stakeholders regarding the independence of the judiciary and the implications of reduced political control. With the upcoming decision from the president, the trajectory of judicial reforms in Poland hangs in the balance, reflecting broader tensions between judicial independence and political influence in the country.
