The Polish Sejm failed to overturn a presidential veto on cryptocurrency legislation Friday, coinciding with internal conflicts within the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party and tensions within the governing coalition.
Crypto Law Veto and Allegations of Russian Ties
The Sejm did not override the presidential veto on the crypto asset market law, falling short by 20 votes. Notably, 17 PiS lawmakers, including Jarosław Kaczyński and Mariusz Błaszczak, did not participate in the vote.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk commented on the failed vote, alleging connections between the Zondacrypto company and right-wing politicians, as well as information reportedly held by intelligence services. Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek announced a criminal investigation into the company, claiming its origins involve “Russian mafia” and “Russian intelligence” influence.
Sejm Disruptions and Penalties
Friday’s Sejm session was marked by disruption when Włodzimierz Czarzasty excluded Michał Woś and Dariusz Matecki for displaying banners related to a Kłodzko affair. Subsequent scuffles and heated exchanges occurred between lawmakers, with footage shared online showing confrontations between PiS and Civic Coalition (KO) members.
Konrad Berkowicz also received a penalty for displaying an Israeli flag with a swastika during a previous session.
Internal Conflict within PiS over Morawiecki’s Association
A conflict emerged within PiS regarding Mateusz Morawiecki’s new association, “Rozwój Plus.” Morawiecki affirmed his commitment to the project and to PiS, while Kaczyński stated that participants involved in a political initiative would not be included on the party’s electoral lists.
Tusk on PiS Instability
Donald Tusk commented on the tensions within PiS, stating that Jarosław Kaczyński had lost control and that party members were anticipating a division of assets following PiS’s potential decline.
Constitutional Tribunal Dispute and Coalition Tensions
Bogdan Święczkowski announced he would file a criminal complaint against Constitutional Tribunal judges Magdalena Bentkowska and Dariusz Szostka, related to their previous complaint regarding the situation of new TK judges.
Tensions within the governing coalition resurfaced as Tusk announced a vote of no confidence in Climate and Environment Minister Paulina Hennig-Kloska would serve as a test of coalition loyalty, particularly for Poland 2050.