Polish parliament to review bill that would allow judges to directly elect 15 members of the National Council of the Judiciary.
Direct Elections Instead of Parliamentary Selection
On Wednesday, the Sejm will hold the first reading of a government bill to amend the Act on the National Council of the Judiciary and the Electoral Code. The bill proposes that 15 judges – members of the KRS – be elected through direct and secret elections organized by the National Electoral Commission, rather than by parliamentary vote as currently practiced.
Qualification Requirements for Candidates
Minister of Justice Zbigniew Żurek emphasized that the bill will ensure KRS members have appropriate experience and knowledge of the judiciary’s functioning. The legislation requires candidates to have at least ten years of judicial service and five years in their current position.
Election Process and Transparency Measures
The bill grants judges across all court levels the right to nominate candidates and entrusts the National Electoral Commission with conducting the elections. Public hearings for candidates will be a key part of the process, allowing for questions and speeches, with proceedings broadcast online to ensure transparency.
Separation of Roles and Social Oversight
The legislation prohibits KRS members from simultaneously serving in the judiciary. Additionally, it establishes a Social Council composed of representatives from legal professional organizations and three non-governmental organization representatives to provide social control over the KRS’s nomination processes.
