In a recent TVN24 interview, former deputy justice minister Sebastian Kaleta claimed the case against former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro was staged, alleging manipulation by PiS officials.
Kaleta Claims Arrest Was Staged
MP Sebastian Kaleta, a former deputy justice minister, told TVN24 that the case against Minister Ziobro was “set up”. He said that early signals indicated the ministry would be examined by the Sejm for a few weeks, but suddenly the case was declared urgent. After immunity was lifted, Kaleta expected an “hyped” judge to decide on the former minister’s arrest.
Host‑Guest Exchange Escalates
During the interview, presenter Konrad Piasecki warned Kaleta that “this is not your exposé”. Kaleta continued, claiming that a two‑year “illegally organised system” would have positioned former Prime Minister Tusk to hold the opposition hostage.
Criticism of Judicial Appointment Rules
Kaleta attacked the regulation on judge appointments introduced by Waldemar Żurka, saying it allowed judges to self‑nominate for three‑person panels, thereby undermining impartiality. He then said, “This is not your exposé,” after the camera was turned off.
Parliament Approves Temporary Detention
The Polish parliament voted to detain and temporarily arrest Zbigniew Ziobro. Prosecutors accuse him of 26 crimes, including running an organized criminal group. The charges involve misappropriation of money from the Justice Fund. The former justice minister is reportedly residing in Hungary.
Prosecutor Allegations Detailed
Prosecutors allege that Ziobro orchestrated financial schemes from the Justice Fund and led a criminal group. The allegations form the basis for the arrest warrants and the decision to lift his parliamentary immunity.