Donald Tusk blasted Karol Nawrocki’s decision not to sign 46 judicial nominations, invoking former Białystok politician Krzysztof Kononowicz’s slogan, and warned of a five‑year pause in court appointments.
Tusk’s Critique
Donald Tusk posted on social media that President Nawrocki’s refusal to sign the nominations of 46 judges amounted to “let there be nothing” – a reference to the slogan of former politician Krzysztof Kononowicz, known for his anti‑corruption stance. Tusk labelled the move a clear “doctrine” being adopted in the presidential palace.
Nawrocki’s Non‑Signature
Karol Nawrocki announced that he would not sign any of the pending judicial nominations, arguing that the judges in question “challenge the constitutional and legal order.” He also warned that those who support Minister Waldemar Żurka’s calls for questioning the constitution would not receive promotions.
Kononowicz’s Legacy
Kononowicz, a Białystok resident who ran for mayor in 2006 and died in May, became famous for a campaign video in which he called for an abolition of banditry and theft, famously saying “let there be nothing.” Tusk invoked this slogan to underline his criticism.
Future of Judicial Nominations
Nawrocki’s statement included a declaration that no judicial nominations would be approved for the next five years. The office of President Zbigniew Bogucki clarified that the refusal concerned appointments to higher courts that were still pending during Andrzej Duda’s presidency.
Legal Profession’s Response
President of the National Bar Association commented that “the ordinary people are the ones held hostage,” indicating concern over the political implications of the president’s refusal to appoint judges willing to challenge the status quo.
