Polish parliament will move the vote on former justice minister Zbigniew Ziobro’s parliamentary immunity to early November, after he fails to waive it by 3 Nov.
Immunity Vote Set for Early November
Ziobro, who is currently abroad in Hungary, received a request to lift his parliamentary immunity on 31 October. He has until 3 November to voluntarily give up immunity; if he does not, the Sejm will act. The parliamentary regulatory, business and immunity committee will convene on 6 November at 16:00 to consider the prosecutor’s request, which also seeks Ziobro’s temporary detention.
Prosecutor’s Case Accuses Ziobro of 26 Crimes
The former justice minister, ex‑attorney general and opposition MP is charged with 26 offences connected to the Justice Fund. Investigators allege that he exceeded his powers, neglected duties, directed a criminal gang, and misappropriated 150 million złoty from a targeted fund earmarked for crime victims. Prosecutor General Anna Adamiak said the case hinges on findings of Investigation Team No. 2, and that Ziobro could face up to 25 years in prison.
Ziobro Meets Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orbán
On 30 October, Orbán announced on X that he had met Ziobro in Budapest, posting a photo of the former minister. Orbán described the meeting as part of the right‑wing triumph in Polish politics and criticised the European Union’s silence, claiming Brussels was silent while Poland attempts to arrest Ziobro.
Ziobro Remains Silent Amid Media Attention
Despite pressure from both politicians and the public, Ziobro has refrained from speaking. He echoed his earlier appeal to political parties to deliver a fair account of the United Right’s eight‑year rule, while urging colleagues not to become “fujary” (crooks) like those in the State Tribunal. His silent stance sparked criticism from the press and parliamentarians alike.
