On 27 October, Polish politician Zbigniew Ziobro flew to Budapest for a pro‑government film screening, sparking a prosecutor’s bid to lift his ministerial immunity amid accusations of criminal conduct.
Ziobro’s Budapest Screening
On 27 October, Ziobro visited Budapest to showcase a film called “Przejęcie” to Hungarian officials. The film, shown at the historic Uránia Cinema, narrated how supporters of former Prime Minister Tusk allegedly invaded public media, shut tv signals, and seized multi‑billion‑dollar assets, turning the outlets into propaganda.
Prosecutor’s Immunity Lift Request
The following day the National Prosecutor’s Office filed a request with the Sejm to strip former Justice Minister Ziobro of parliamentary immunity. Prosecutors allege he is head of an organized crime group and seek permission for his detention and temporary arrest.
Expert Analysis on Prosecutorial Actions
Professor Radosław Markowski notes that Ziobro’s visit had no connection to the prosecutor’s move. He stresses that proceedings are slow but demonstrate a serious approach to holding politicians accountable. Professor Robert Alberski highlights the weight of 26 charges, the complexity of evidence compilation, and the administrative burden of lifting immunity for each new accusation.
Ziobro’s Potential Move to Hungary
Markowski suggests Ziobro could follow the example of Romanowski and seek asylum in Hungary, though a forthcoming change in Hungarian leadership may render the move unproductive. Alberski predicts he will remain in Poland, face the court case, and possibly pursue limited political debate while remaining subject to the legal process.
Political and Judicial Ramifications
Experts argue that prosecuting a prominent PiS figure signals a shift toward stricter enforcement of political corruption. They anticipate that PiS leaders may continue to criticize the prosecutor’s competence, while there may be a possibility of leniency from President Nawrocki if the case concludes before the next elections.