Former National Security Bureau head Sławomir Cenckiewicz sharply criticized Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, prompting a strong defense from the Polish People’s Party and Civic Coalition.
Cenckiewicz Accuses Kosiniak-Kamysz of Harm to Poland
Sławomir Cenckiewicz stated that opposing funds for the Polish army, both European and national, is “foolish” and accused Kosiniak-Kamysz of harming Poland. He cited individuals like Stróżyk, Dusza, Pacek, Lichocki, and Klin as symbolic of the minister’s tenure.
Cenckiewicz further criticized Kosiniak-Kamysz’s preparation regarding national security issues, labeling strategic documents as outdated and attacking the SAFE project, claiming it is 90% plagiarized from the President’s legislation.
Allegations of Political Subservience and Lack of Accomplishment
The former BBN chief accused the Defense Minister of political subservience to Donald Tusk, alleging Kosiniak-Kamysz is merely a tool acting in coordination with Tusk to dismantle Poland’s system, constitution, and rule of law.
Cenckiewicz criticized Kosiniak-Kamysz’s past attempts to appeal to the right wing as insincere, and asserted that lacking any accomplishments, he resorts to “smear tactics.”
PSL Defends Kosiniak-Kamysz, Criticizes Cenckiewicz
Politicians from the Polish People’s Party (PSL) swiftly defended Kosiniak-Kamysz, with Infrastructure Minister Dariusz Klimczak urging Cenckiewicz to show more humility and learn “patriotism, responsibility for the state, and respect for the Polish uniform” from the minister.
Klimczak accused Cenckiewicz of allowing “party fury” to overshadow Poland’s security and suggested his attacks stem from being dismissed from the President’s office.
Calls for a Break and Accusations of Frustration
PSL MEP Adam Jarubas suggested Cenckiewicz is struggling with the stress of his dismissal and is lashing out instead of addressing “factional struggles” within the President’s Chancellery, recommending a vacation.
Other PSL politicians described Cenckiewicz’s attacks as stemming from frustration and a loss of influence, while highlighting the record modernization of the Polish army under Kosiniak-Kamysz’s leadership.
Coalition Support and Concerns over Disintegration
Politicians from the Civic Coalition (KO) also rallied to Kosiniak-Kamysz’s defense, with Cezary Tomczyk expressing pride in working under his leadership and stating that Poles view him as the best Defense Minister in years.
Piotr Zgorzelski of the PSL expressed concern that Cenckiewicz’s actions could contribute to societal disintegration and suggested even PiS recognizes he is harmful.
Ongoing Dispute Following Cenckiewicz’s Dismissal
Cenckiewicz has increasingly launched sharp attacks on government representatives since his dismissal. In response, PSL and KO politicians have united in defending Kosiniak-Kamysz and questioning Cenckiewicz’s credibility. He has since joined the team of Przemysław Czarnek, PiS’s candidate for Prime Minister.