Piotr Szymaniak: To intimidate and bribe the rest, or the atomic version of the muzzle law
The article discusses the Polish president's veto of a law regarding the National Council of the Judiciary, suggesting that it reflects the ruling party's intention to maintain control over judicial independence.
In Poland, the recent veto by President Andrzej Duda of the law concerning the National Council of the Judiciary (KRS) has raised eyebrows. Many anticipated that the president, appointed by the right-wing Law and Justice party (PiS), would sign legislation that allowed judges to have a say in their own appointments. However, given PiS's longstanding efforts to undermine judicial independence and strengthen parliamentary power, this expectation was viewed as overly optimistic. The proposed legislation aimed to limit the participation of many neo-judges in KRS elections, showing a clear intent to consolidate the party's control over the judiciary.
The article posits that the efforts surrounding the KRS law were primarily strategic, aimed at creating a confrontation to blame the president for obstructing necessary judicial reforms. This continues the narrative of conflict that has plagued Polish courts, which is increasingly evident to citizens experiencing the repercussions of such a political stalemate. The suggestion that new legislation could reduce chaos within the judicial system appears more like a political tactic than a serious attempt to resolve growing judicial issues.
Ultimately, the piece critiques the motives behind the government's legislative maneuvers. It underscores that the PiS party is unlikely to relinquish the achievements they've made in controlling the judiciary without a substantial struggle, and this ongoing conflict could lead to further complications for the rule of law in Poland. The implications of such a stance not only affect legal professionals but also stir public discontent as citizens feel the effects of a judiciary caught in the crossfire of political battles.