Former Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro and Marcin Romanowski, both facing corruption charges, may lose asylum in Hungary following recent election results.
Ziobro and Romanowski Under Investigation
Both Romanowski and Ziobro face charges in an investigation related to the functioning of the Justice Fund during the PiS government’s tenure. Prosecutors accuse former Justice Minister Ziobro of leading an organized crime group and abusing his position for criminal activities, with 26 alleged offenses. Marcin Romanowski faces 19 charges.
Romanowski obtained political asylum in Hungary in December 2024 and has been subject to a European Arrest Warrant since February 2026. While a warrant has only been issued for Ziobro, prosecutors have requested a European Arrest Warrant as well. The case remains ongoing.
Orbán’s Loss and Potential Repercussions
Recent parliamentary elections in Hungary, with TISZA party’s victory, signal a shift in power after 16 years of Viktor Orbán and Fidesz in opposition. Peter Magyar, the winning party’s leader, has indicated that Romanowski and Ziobro will no longer be granted political asylum under his premiership.
Magyar stated that Hungary will not harbor international criminals, suggesting Romanowski and Ziobro should not make long-term plans. He jokingly advised them against purchasing furniture from IKEA.
Justice Minister Żurek Outlines Next Steps
Waldemar Żurek announced further action regarding Romanowski and Ziobro, noting their previous statements rejecting immunity while simultaneously seeking asylum from Orbán. He expressed hope for a civilized resolution and their return to Poland to face justice.
Żurek clarified that Romanowski’s situation is clear due to the existing European Arrest Warrant, allowing for pursuit throughout the EU. He criticized Orbán’s granting of asylum to an EU citizen as a violation of EU law.
Two Scenarios for Extradition
Żurek outlined two potential paths forward: filing a complaint with the European Court of Justice or awaiting political changes in Hungary. He anticipates increased cooperation between Hungarian and Polish authorities, potentially leading to the revocation of asylum and the prosecution of the accused in Poland.
He also noted that the situation with Ziobro is complicated by delays in the court’s review of the European Arrest Warrant request, attributed to legal maneuvers by Ziobro’s representatives. The prosecution has submitted a further request for expedited review, citing the new political landscape in Hungary.
Concerns Over Potential Escape to the US
Reports suggest Romanowski and Ziobro may be planning to leave Hungary for the United States. Żurek acknowledged the possibility of using asylum documents to cross EU borders but believes they are unlikely to receive protection from a civilized country.
He emphasized that both suspects have had their passports revoked, limiting their ability to legally leave the Schengen Area. Żurek stated that if a European Arrest Warrant is issued for Ziobro, his apprehension within the EU will be facilitated.