Sejm Strips Zbigniew Ziobro of Immunity Again Over Prosecutor Defamation Charges

The Polish Sejm has voted to revoke the parliamentary immunity of former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro, following allegations that he defamed and insulted National Prosecutor Dariusz Korneluk in a public statement.

The Immunity Vote

In a formal session of the Sejm, 436 deputies participated in the vote regarding Zbigniew Ziobro’s immunity. The motion to strip him of protection passed with 238 votes in favor and 198 against, with no abstentions.

Allegations of Defamation

The case stems from remarks made by the former minister during a PiS press conference last December. Legal counsel representing the National Prosecutor argued that Ziobro slandered Dariusz Korneluk by claiming his appointment was a political maneuver designed to prioritize the interests of the governing party and shield corruption associated with Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s administration.

Professional Standing

Counsel noted that Korneluk has been with the prosecutor’s office since 1993, serving in various capacities for decades without prior questions regarding his professionalism or diligence. The legal representative emphasized that calling a long-serving official a “party activist” constitutes both defamation and insult under the penal code.

Institutional Conflict

The current controversy follows the January 2024 decision by Prosecutor General Adam Bodnar to declare the 2022 appointment of Dariusz Barski as National Prosecutor invalid. Subsequently, Prime Minister Donald Tusk appointed Jacek Bilewicz as acting head until Dariusz Korneluk was selected through a competition and officially appointed in March 2024.

Ziobro’s Response and Current Status

Following the private indictment announcement in March, Ziobro stated on social media that referring to Korneluk as a “party activist” was an understatement, further alleging that the prosecutor was part of a criminal group that seized control of the National Prosecutor’s Office.

Legal Investigations

Zbigniew Ziobro is currently in the United States, having previously stayed in Hungary. He faces a broader investigation regarding the Justice Fund, with prosecutors alleging that he committed 26 offenses, including leading an organized criminal group while serving as Minister of Justice.