Polish leader Jarosław Kaczyński warned that the nearly bed‑ridden former justice minister Zbigniew Ziobro should not be subject to arrest, calling the idea a “murder” and a death sentence, while his current whereabouts remain unknown.
Kaczyński Dismisses Prosecutorial Claims
Jarosław Kaczyński said that the prosecutor has no grounds to pursue Zbigniew Ziobro. He argued that demanding the arrest of a seriously ill man at risk of death is criminal in itself, and that everyone has the right to defend their life.
Location of Ziobro Remains Uncertain
When asked whether he knew the former minister’s whereabouts, Kaczyński replied that he did not know where Ziobro was. He declined to comment on whether Ziobro should return to Poland, replying sarcastically, “For the purpose of being murdered?”
Health, Murder Allegations and Incarceration Debate
Kaczyński warned that imprisoning a man who requires constant, intensive medical care would essentially be a death sentence. He cited Ziobro’s recent stay in Budapest, where he participated in a film premier and met with Viktor Orban, which sparked debate over his return to Poland.
Legal Proceedings: 26 Charges Pending
The National Prosecutor’s Office seeks to lift Ziobro’s immunity, citing 26 alleged crimes. A Sejm committee will discuss the request on November 6, with a full‑house vote expected the following day. The charges stem from inquiries into misuse of the Justice Fund, including the illegal acquisition of the Pegasus surveillance system for 25 million złoty, leading a criminal group, and failure to oversee proper fund distribution.
International Movements and Asylum Status
While Ziobro has been reported in Budapest, another suspect, former deputy Ziemian Marcin Romanowski, is also in Hungary and received political asylum. Both figures remain beyond the reach of Polish justice.
