Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, speaking in Kraków on Constitution Day, suggested improving adherence to the existing constitution is preferable to rewriting it.
Kosiniak-Kamysz Addresses Constitution Day Celebrations
Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz participated in celebrations marking the Third of May National Holiday in Kraków. During his speech, he referenced President Karol Nawrocki’s earlier initiative to establish a Council for a New Constitution, tasked with drafting a new fundamental law.
Focus on Implementation, Not Revision
The Defense Minister stated the need to consider whether those “most called to it, because indicated by the nation,” are fulfilling all the provisions of the constitution. He added that the question is whether the constitution needs to be changed, or if people need to be responsible enough to uphold it.
Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized, “We can always improve ourselves. That is much simpler.”
Potential for Updates Reflecting Current Alliances
Kosiniak-Kamysz also suggested that the constitution might need to be supplemented to address matters not present during its original drafting. He specifically referenced Poland’s membership in NATO and the European Union.
He stated that Poland’s accession to the EU, confirmed by referendum, should have a permanent place in the fundamental law.
President Nawrocki Establishes Constitutional Council
President Karol Nawrocki established the Council for a New Constitution on Sunday. Members include former Sejm Speaker Marek Jurek, former PiS MEP Professor Ryszard Legutko, constitutional law expert Professor Anna Łabno, constitutional law scholar Dr. hab. Ryszard Piotrowski, former Sejm Speaker Józef Zych, former President of the Constitutional Tribunal Julia Przyłębska, and retired judge and former Justice Minister Barbara Piwnik.
President Nawrocki’s Remarks on Council Formation
President Nawrocki expressed gratitude to the professionals and courageous individuals who have joined the Council, noting their diverse perspectives. He stated that the Presidential Palace will become a place for responsible political and social debate, guaranteed by the diversity of viewpoints among the council members.
