Polish President Karol Nawrocki has invited two newly elected Constitutional Tribunal judges for swearing-in, sparking debate over his reservations regarding the remaining four.
Poll Shows Support for Immediate Swearing-In
A poll indicates 56.6% of respondents favor the immediate swearing-in of Constitutional Tribunal judges, while 27.6% oppose it, and 15.7% are undecided.
Among voters of the ruling coalition, 87% want Karol Nawrocki to administer the oath. Conversely, 27% of opposition voters support this, while 62% disagree. The survey was conducted on March 27-28 with 1067 respondents.
President Invites Judges to Presidential Palace
TVN24 reported that Karol Nawrocki invited Dariusz Szostek and Magdalena Bentkowska, two newly elected Constitutional Tribunal judges, to the Presidential Palace.
Parliament Elects New Tribunal Judges
On March 13, the Sejm (Polish Parliament) elected six Constitutional Tribunal judges, with the ruling coalition filling the vacancies with its candidates. The Sejm rejected candidates nominated by the PiS party. Presidential aides indicated Karol Nawrocki had doubts about the election process and procedure.
Political Interpretations of the Swearing-In
University of Warsaw political scientist Dr. hab. Olgierd Annusewicz suggested the President may have reservations about four of the judges, leading to the partial invitation. Alternatively, he may be attempting to avoid accusations of obstructing the Constitutional Tribunal.
Annusewicz noted that the President has not publicly stated specific concerns about the uninvited judges, suggesting a possible negotiation strategy.
Prime Minister Tusk’s Response
Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated he was not surprised by the invitation and affirmed the government would ensure the judges can begin their work.
Tusk reiterated the government’s position that the President has no authority to choose which judges to swear in, stating they were duly elected and will take the oath.
