Poland’s parliamentary committee censured Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro for non-attendance, with a PiS lawmaker denouncing the motion as driven by hatred.
Committee Proceedings on Disciplinary Action
The Sejm’s Committee on Rules, Parliamentary Affairs, and Immunity discussed a motion to penalize Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro for failing to attend parliamentary sessions since October 17. Committee Vice-Chairman Włodzimierz Czarzasty had previously demanded a financial penalty for Ziobro’s absences.
Ziobro’s Defense: Pre-Arrest Detention
Elżbieta Witek of PiS defended Ziobro, stating he left Poland not for vacation but because a prison ambulance was prepared to transfer him upon issuance of an arrest warrant or wanted notice. She claimed “honest proceedings are impossible in Poland currently.”
Opposition: Taxpayer-Funded Absence
KO MPs Katarzyna Stachowicz and Gabriela Lenartowicz argued Ziobro’s absences violated his duties as an MP. Lenartowicz questioned funding Ziobro’s “so-called scholarship in Hungary” and called him a “self-appointed sheriff” who became a “fugitive,” criticizing taxpayer-funded vacations near Lake Balaton.
PiS Response: Political Persecution
Barbara Bartuš of PiS accused opposition MPs of acting out of “pure hate,” claiming Ziobro’s case constituted “persecution.” She dismissed the proceedings as driven by animosity rather than merit.
Outcome: Censure Approved
The committee approved the censure motion with 9 votes in favor and 6 against.
