The Polish Sejm will vote Friday on overriding President Karol Nawrocki’s veto of a criminal code amendment, a move fueled by stadium protests and political maneuvering.
Stadium Protests Pressure President
The Sejm unexpectedly scheduled a vote on the veto Wednesday morning, following recent criticism of President Nawrocki from football fans.
The amendment limits pre-trial detention, bans illegally obtained evidence, and strengthens the right to defense. The decision to expedite the vote surprised both journalists and parliamentarians, particularly from the opposition.
Timing is “Ideal,” Says Coalition Member
According to sources, the decision was made Tuesday afternoon after discussions within the government and parliamentary clubs. A politician from the Left party stated the initial plan was to vote in April, but that was deemed too late.
A member of Civic Coalition (KO) noted the timing is opportune given the recent displays of discontent at football stadiums, where fans displayed banners criticizing the President.
Fans Express Outrage Over Veto
The veto, which opponents say weakens protections for the accused, sparked anger among football fans who displayed critical banners at several stadiums over the weekend.
Banners included slogans such as “President, you forgot who voted you into power” and “Without evidence, years of arrest.” Fans of Lech Poznań displayed a banner stating, “You are not one of us.”
PiS and Konfederacja Remain Unclear
The governing coalition hopes to capitalize on the situation, aiming to pressure PiS and Konfederacja, as the President himself has a background in the football fan community.
A KO politician believes some members of both parties may break ranks to avoid further alienating fans. There are signals Konfederacja may vote with the coalition.
PiS Defends Veto, Cites Child Protection
PiS politicians firmly state they will uphold the President’s veto, arguing the amendment protects individuals accused of crimes against minors.
Marcin Warchoł, a former deputy justice minister, emphasized there should be no leniency for pedophiles and that the law should not harm children.
Konfederacja Undecided, Proposes Alternative
Konfederacja has not yet announced its position, but Deputy Speaker Krzysztof Bosak suggests they are unlikely to support overriding the veto.
Bosak stated they did not support the original bill and likely won’t help overturn the veto, but acknowledged the criminal code needs changes. Konfederacja previously proposed a bill to limit pre-trial detention.
PiS Seeks Presidential Proposal
Recognizing the potential fallout from the stadium protests, PiS hopes President Nawrocki will propose his own amendment to the code.
Vote Outcome Uncertain
Adrian Zandberg, leader of Razem, has declared his support for overriding the veto, arguing the President made a mistake and that overuse of pre-trial detention is a problem in Poland.
Overriding the veto requires 276 votes. The current coalition, along with Razem and some independent MPs, falls short of that number, meaning support from PiS or Konfederacja is needed, or abstentions from those parties.