Ryszard Terlecki’s remarks about the Justice Fund, made during a March 2023 interview on Polish Radio, are resurfacing amid renewed accusations and a prosecution targeting former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro.
Terlecki Recalled 2023 Comment on Justice Fund
In March 2023, Ryszard Terlecki was interviewed on Polish Radio’s “W otwarte karty,” where he discussed reports that money from the Justice Fund was directed to rural women’s circles purportedly to aid in crime prevention.
Interview Details and Financial Pledges
The politician explained that, after some pushback, the party allocated 5,000 zł to rural circles, later doubling the sum to 10,000 zł. He noted that a coalition partner from Solidarna Polska had suggested competing for the same funds, describing it as a “pure election gesture.”
Political Clash Over Allocation of Funds
Terlecki argued that the disbursement of the funds appeared coercive and stressed that such money should have a specific purpose. He accused Solidarna Polska of overestimating its ability to win votes through such tactics, warning that voters would turn to PiS instead.
Prosecutor’s Case Against Former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro
On 28 October, a petition was submitted to the Sejm to lift the parliamentary immunity of Zbigniew Ziobro, signed by Prosecutor General Waldemar Żurek. The request, based on findings of Investigation Team 2, alleges 26 crimes, including abuse of duty and directing a criminal organization, related to how Ziobro managed Justice Fund allocations.
The prosecutor’s office seeks Ziobro’s arrest, citing risks of flight. Eleven witnesses, including former Ministry officials and Ziobro aides, have testified. One suspect is former Deputy Minister Michał Woś.