The Polish police clarified their stance after the Constitutional Court’s president warned against enforcing a court order to detain former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro.
Police Deny Ability to Ignore Court Orders
The police responded to a letter from Constitutional Court President Bogdan Święczkowski, stating they have no legal grounds to refuse executing court decisions. Spokesperson Katarzyna Nowak emphasized that the police must carry out technical actions, which individuals can later appeal in court. She also noted that police lack access to investigation files.
Constitutional Court’s Temporary Order
Święczkowski’s letter to police chief Marek Boron referred to a temporary ruling by the Constitutional Court, which prohibited issuing arrest warrants against Ziobro. He argued that a Warsaw court’s decision on September 16 contradicted the Constitutional Court’s order, calling it unlawful. Święczkowski urged Boron to ensure compliance with constitutional and legal norms, warning that police actions against the order could lead to legal consequences.
Court Approves Ziobro’s Compulsory Appearance
The case stems from a Warsaw court’s September 16 decision allowing the forced appearance of Ziobro before an investigative commission on September 29. A spokesperson for the Warsaw District Court dismissed the Constitutional Court’s authority, stating it does not bind lower courts and lacks legal force.
