Polish prosecutors in November moved to present 26 charges against former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro for misconduct from 2017‑2023, and the prosecutor has now notified the Sejm’s speaker, raising the prospect of his accountability before the State Tribunal.
Charges Filed Against Zbigniew Ziobro
In November, prosecutors issued a decision to present charges and detain former Justice Minister and former Attorney General Zbigniew Ziobro. The investigation into irregularities at the Justice Fund gathered evidence that could lead to 26 criminal acts by Ziobro between 2017 and 2023. Allegations include tampering with competitions, allowing unauthorized parties to enter contracts, and tolerating the grant of funds to organizations not meeting formal requirements. Ziobro denies wrongdoing and has not been detained, having been abroad in Hungary for several weeks.
Prosecutor Zurek Notifies Sejm Speaker
Prosecutor General Waldemar Żurek sent a formal letter to Sejm Marshal Władysław Czarzasty with the contents of the decision to present charges against Ziobro. Under the State Tribunal Act, prosecutors are required to inform the marshal promptly if a magistrate faces preparatory proceedings and the accused is a cabinet minister. The same obligation applies to Ziobro, whose case now triggers that procedural requirement.
Potential for Sejm to Assess State Tribunal Proceedings
Prosecutor General Anna Adamiak explained that the marshal’s notification could serve as a basis for the Sejm to consider whether the alleged legal violations satisfy the conditions for a constitutional offence that would subject Ziobro to State Tribunal scrutiny. If conditions appear met, the Sejm could decide to initiate a process holding him accountable to the Tribunal.
Constitutional Basis for State Tribunal Action
The Constitution states that cabinet ministers are responsible before the State Tribunal for violations of the Constitution or laws and for offences committed in connection with their office. The Sejm can propose a resolution to hold a minister accountable on the request of the President or on the proposal of at least 115 MPs, requiring a three‑fifth majority of the Sejm’s active members.