Thirteen newly elected members of the National Council of the Judiciary (KRS) have declared their readiness to begin work, calling for an immediate inaugural meeting to address the crisis in the Polish judiciary.
New KRS members declare readiness to work
Thirteen judges elected to the National Council of the Judiciary last week announced their readiness to assume their duties on Wednesday. Judge Dariusz Zawistowski expressed hope for the swift convocation of the Council’s first session.
The Sejm elected 15 new judicial members on May 15. Thirteen were recommended by the governing coalition, while Lukasz Piebiak and Lukasz Zawadzki were nominated by PiS and the Confederation parties.
Ministry of Justice supports transition
Justice Minister Waldemar Zurek, an ex-officio member of the Council, labeled the event a significant day for restoring constitutional functionality. He expressed a desire to begin transparent, merit-based competitions for judicial positions to improve the condition of the courts.
Judge Zawistowski confirmed that the newly elected members began performing their tasks on Monday, emphasizing the need to address the deep crisis within the judiciary through prompt action.
Dispute over legality and constitutional concerns
The selection process has faced scrutiny, particularly regarding a previous Constitutional Tribunal ruling that ordered the Sejm to halt election activities. Judge Zawistowski argued that the safety measures issued by the Tribunal did not apply to the specific voting procedure used, as the provision regarding the qualified majority remained unchallenged.
Other members, including Judge Monika Frackowiak, noted that the transition has proceeded without procedural obstacles so far. Minister Zurek dismissed concerns of further disruptions, stating that the Council’s office is functioning normally as members familiarize themselves with their duties.
Statutory requirements for the inaugural session
Under current law, the First President of the Supreme Court is responsible for convening the first session within 30 days. If this deadline is not met, the most senior judge serving on the Council must call the meeting within 14 days of the original deadline’s expiration.
The composition of the Council includes 15 judges, the Minister of Justice, the First President of the Supreme Court, the President of the Supreme Administrative Court, a representative of the President, and six parliamentarians.
