On October 28, Prime Minister Donald Tusk linked Member of Parliament Konrad Berkowicz to a 390‑zloty Ikea theft, sparking a sharp parliamentary backlash.
Tusk’s Allegation of Ikea Theft
Prime Minister Donald Tusk publicly identified Member of Parliament Konrad Berkowicz as allegedly involved in a 390‑zloty theft at Ikea on October 28, calling him a “dishonest cynic.”
Berkowicz’s Reply and Defence
Berkowicz countered, claiming he was distracted by headphones while checking out items, that a few things were inadvertently left behind, and that he paid a 500‑zloty fine without invoking immunity.
Radio ZET Report Details
Radio ZET confirmed that the incident occurred at the store’s checkout line, that Berkowicz performed a self‑service scan, stole items such as towels and a frying pan, and was subsequently fined.
Berkowicz’s Apology and Comparison to Other Politicians
In a statement, Berkowicz apologized for the “mistake,” noted that he did not use immunity like other politicians such as Łukasz Mejza or Franciszek Sterczewski, and promised it would not happen again.
Context of Political Controversy
The exchange highlights mounting tensions between the ruling PiS and its critics, with Tusk’s remarks framing the incident as part of an ongoing critique of opposition conduct.
