Polish opposition MP and former justice minister Zbigniew Ziobro will face 26 criminal charges, with prosecutors outlining two prerequisites before he can be heard, as parliament schedules hearings for 6‑7 November.
Prosecutor Notes Two Prerequisites for Hearing Ziobro
On 6 November the parliamentary regulation committee will discuss removing Ziobro’s immunity, followed by a plenary session on 7 November. Professor Szymon Tarapata explains that the Sejm must first agree that he is accountable before prosecutors can present the charges.
Possible Detention After Immunity Removal
Once immunity is lifted, the prosecutor can request preventive measures or temporary arrest. The proceedings can only proceed if the person to be charged is physically present; otherwise a scenario similar to the Marcin Romanowski case could repeat.
International Complications: Hungary Asylum
Tarapata warns that if Ziobro seeks political asylum in Hungary, extradition to Poland would be impossible unless Hungarian authorities cooperate. This hinges on the current Hungarian government, as elections are set for April 2026.
26 Charges Over Justice Fund Misappropriation
Ziobro is accused of abusing power, failing to perform duties, and leading an organized group that siphoned 150 million zlotys from the Justice Fund intended for crime‑victims. Prosecutors say the offenses are directly tied to his ministerial role, and he faces up to 25 years in prison.
Ziobro’s Response and Immunity Debate
Ziobro did not waive his immunity before 3 November and said he was unaware the authorities intended to lay many charges against him. He pledged to answer in due course, emphasizing patience as a noble virtue.