Telewizja Republika chief Tomasz Sakiewicz was questioned by the National Prosecutor’s Office on Wednesday, May 20, regarding the employment of former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro.
Sakiewicz Before the Prosecutor
Investigators questioned Tomasz Sakiewicz on Wednesday, May 20. Supporters of Telewizja Republika gathered outside the National Prosecutor’s Office to protest, claiming the investigation into the station’s head is unjustified. The protest included station employee Michał Rachoń.
National Prosecutor’s Office spokesperson Przemysław Nowak stated during a press conference that Sakiewicz refused to answer most questions, citing journalistic privilege. The prosecutor noted that Sakiewicz also submitted a non-substantive statement to the record, which was characterized as purely political.
Allegations of Procedural Failure
Leaving the building at 11:00 AM, Sakiewicz dismissed the proceedings as a “fiasco.” He claimed the prosecutor’s office was incapable of drafting a proper summons and argued that the legal scope of the questioning did not match the initial notification. He declared his readiness to testify only if summoned by a legally appointed prosecutor for a clearly defined purpose.
The TV station head further alleged that while the summons was signed by prosecutor Piotr Woźniak, he was questioned by someone else. Sakiewicz confirmed that no formal charges were presented against him during the session, though he acknowledged past threats of potential penalties.
Background of the Investigation
The proceedings stem from an inquiry into whether third parties assisted former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro in leaving the country. Prosecutors are investigating the circumstances surrounding Ziobro’s recent hiring as a commentator for Telewizja Republika.
Last year, prosecutors issued a decision to charge Ziobro in connection with the Justice Fund scandal. Investigators suspect him of 26 offenses, including leading an organized criminal group. Ziobro and former deputy Marcin Romanowski have reportedly sought political asylum in Hungary during the Orban administration.
