Justice Minister Żurek Takes Direct Oversight of Southern Hospital Probe

Minister of Justice and Prosecutor General Waldemar Żurek announced on Thursday that he will personally supervise the investigation into the Southern Hospital, citing significant social interest and the need to eliminate political pressure.

Investigation Under Direct Supervision

Prosecutor General Waldemar Żurek emphasized that the ongoing investigation into the Southern Hospital will be conducted under his direct watch. He noted that the case carries significant social weight and must remain entirely free from political influence, ensuring the legal process remains impartial.

Responding to queries regarding the timeline of the investigation, Żurek stated that the prosecution is gathering evidence rather than making hasty, politically motivated decisions. He stressed that any formal indictment must be meticulously prepared to withstand judicial scrutiny without errors.

Allegations of Privilege and Administrative Shake-up

The controversy centers on reports that Dawid Kacprzyk, an anesthesiology resident, SOR coordinator, and local politician, earned 1.6 million PLN last year, while allegations surfaced that Civic Coalition politicians received preferential treatment at the hospital. Following the reports, Kacprzyk resigned from his party and his council seat, and returned a portion of his earnings to the hospital.

In response to the scandal, Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski announced the dismissal of the entire management board of the Southern Hospital. Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed that those who utilized the so-called VIP path for medical access will face political consequences, adding that the government intends to curb such practices within the public healthcare system.