In a new Gazeta.pl podcast, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki discussed a possible future cooperation with Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro, while addressing criticism over Cardinal Jacek Kurski’s potential role as head of Polish TV.
Podcast Context
The latest episode of Gazeta.pl’s podcast was released on Tuesday. Host Grzegorz Sroczyński interviewed former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, covering topics including a potential future cooperation with Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro.
The interview also reminded readers that investigators are pursuing the former Justice Minister over his involvement in the Justice Fund scandal. They seek to press 26 criminal charges, alleging that Ziobro organized and led a criminal group within the Ministry of Justice. The cumulative penalty could reach up to 25 years in prison.
Morawiecki on Ziobro Cooperation
Moweza was asked whether he would again appoint Ziobro as Justice Minister if he returned as Prime Minister. “In my government I intend to do that,” he replied.
Reaction to Kurski Appointment
Moweza also announced that Jacek Kurski would not be the president of Polish TV. “If I have the decisive voice here, definitely not,” he said. He added that he would refuse to become Prime Minister again if the appointment of Ziobro depended on that.
Legal Proceedings on Ziobro
A few days ago prosecutors filed a request for Ziobro’s temporary arrest with the court. Prosecutor‑General’s Office spokesman Przemysław Nowak said the request is based on three grounds.
First, the concern that Ziobro might hide or flee, since he has no permanent residence in Poland and is currently in Hungary. Second, the fear of wrongdoing, as Ziobro’s media statements include threats and he is charged with leading an organised criminal group. Third, the threat of a severe penalty: for certain charges, the alleged acts could carry up to 25 years in prison.
Nowak said that if Ziobro’s health does not allow for imprisonment, the prosecutor’s office would withdraw the temporary arrest. On 18 November the foreign minister revoked Ziobro’s diplomatic passport. Radosław Sikorski posted that he acted on the prosecutor’s request, and a court hearing on the former Justice Minister will take place on 22 December. The District Court for Warsaw‑Mokotów will decide on the prosecutor’s application.
