Polish Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek denounced the president’s refusal to nominate 46 judges, alleging the move was driven by a controversial “King Sun” idea and violates the constitution.
President’s Refusal of Judge Nominations
During a Thursday press conference, Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek criticized Karol Nawrocki’s decision to decline the nomination of 46 judges. He noted that the president, by rejecting the nominations, did not increase the number of so‑called neo‑judges, since those were all individuals who had passed the competitive selection before the neo‑KRS.
Alleged “King Sun” Influence
Żurek cited rumors that “whispers of Minister Waldemar Żurek’s remarks” had displeased the president, describing this as an extralegal, unconstitutional premise. He asserted that such an approach to nominations breaches the constitution.
Judicial Opposition and Signature Lists
He explained that the president’s refusal touched two groups: judges whom he blocked from nomination, and a group of about four thousand judges who “signed a letter to the executive and legislative authorities.” These judges had advocated implementing the EU Court of Justice decision on a Disciplinary Chamber, which was eventually abolished.
European Court of Justice Ruling on Disciplinary Chamber
Żurek highlighted that the Disciplinary Chamber ruling, intended to be adopted, was later abolished, underscoring the significance of the judges’ opposition to the president’s decision.
Minister’s Warning to Polish Rule‑of‑Law
The minister warned that employing the “King Sun” concept—“the state is I”—to bar judges who apply EU law from future nominations is unacceptable, as Polish citizens continue to benefit from the EU legal system.
Upcoming Developments
He added that further information would be released soon.
