On Tuesday, 30 September, Polish Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek introduced a regulation amending court officials’ procedures, sparking opposition criticism and a heated press‑conference exchange with a Telewizja Republika staffer.
Regulation Alters Random Case Assignment for Judges
Minister Żurek’s order modifies the system that randomly assigns cases to judges (SLPS), aiming to reduce the risk of non‑lawful benches. The regulation was published in the official state gazette on 30 September.
Tension at Press Conference
During a Saturday press conference, the minister clashed with a Telewizja Republika employee who accused him of making potentially unlawful decisions. The employee demanded that the minister focus on answering questions rather than delivering personal theses.
Minister’s Defense of Reforms
Żurek countered by insisting that the new rules uphold rule of law and increase speed and independence of trials. He warned the employee that no one could drive him mad, reaffirming his consistency with the goal of restoring legal order.
Opposition Accuses of Lawlessness
Opposition leader Karol Nawrocki labelled the regulation an “ostentatious act of lawlessness,” arguing it should be revoked immediately. He claimed the minister intends to replace legislation with executive orders, violating constitutional norms.
Government Endorses the Regulation
Government spokesperson Adam Szlapka affirmed that the coalition backs the minister’s plan and would not step back. He stated the reforms align with European Court of Human Rights standards and aim to eliminate unsafe judicial benches.
