Polish MP Katarzyna Lubnauer accused PiS leaders of forming a “club in exile” in Hungary, sparking a heated exchange with opposition figures.
TVN24 Studio Tension
During a TVN24 interview, MP Katarzyna Lubnauer raised the controversial topic of PiS politicians Zbigniew Ziobro and former deputy minister Marcin Romanowski staying in Hungary.
She reminded viewers that both Ziobro and Romanowski are currently in Budapest, where they are being pursued by the prosecutor’s office over alleged irregularities in spending from the Justice Fund.
Lubnauer emphasized that neither Ziobro nor Romanowski has been removed from the PiS club, noting that the two are still party members while abroad.
Reason Behind Hungary
Lubnauer explained that the choice of Hungary is no accident; the country blocks sanctions against Russia and is openly pro‑Putin.
She said that PiS politicians selecting Hungary as a sanctuary demonstrates the party’s stance and may end soon if new hiding places become necessary after elections.
PiS Club in Exile Claim
Lubnauer declared that PiS is effectively establishing a club in exile and suggested that if another PiS member joins, a PiS association could emerge in Budapest.
Smoliński’s Response
Parliamentarian Kazimierz Smoliński dismissed the accusations, stating Romanowski is not hiding but holds legal political asylum in Hungary.
He called the opposition attacks a political game and also claimed that the government unlawfully seized the National Prosecutor’s Office, noting former prosecutor Dariusz Barski was dismissed without presidential consent.
Estate Sale Allegations
The interview turned to the sale of a manor in Jadwisin, a property previously bought with public funds under the “Willaplus” program.
It was recently put up for sale at a price more than three times its original value; Smoliński argued that the funds could be recovered through a hypothecary lien in favour of the State Treasury worth 1.8 million PLN.
Lubnauer countered that the real issue is that the state’s fundamental interest was not secured.
