Former Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro has moved to the United States from Hungary, sparking internal divisions within the Law and Justice party while facing 26 criminal charges involving the Justice Fund.
Asylum in Hungary and a New Role in Media
Former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro announced on Sunday that he is currently in the United States, utilizing documents granted alongside asylum status he received in Hungary. Despite the ongoing National Prosecutor’s Office investigation into the Justice Fund, where he and former deputy Marcin Romanowski are suspects, Ziobro denied that his departure was an escape. Shortly after his arrival, TV Republika announced that the politician would join the station as a political commentator.
Deep Rifts Within Law and Justice
Internal reports indicate a lack of cohesion within Law and Justice (PiS) regarding Ziobro’s departure. While leadership figures close to Jarosław Kaczyński have labeled the move a “good decision” and dismissed image concerns, the “scout” faction—supporters of former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki—remains highly critical. One MP from this group described the collaboration with TV Republika and the circumstances of the departure as a “circus,” admitting he was “rubbing his eyes in disbelief.”
Strategic Diversion and Internal Discipline
The party’s vice-president and candidate for prime minister, Przemysław Czarnek, has dismissed the controversy as a “third-rate issue,” attempting to pivot public attention toward domestic problems such as energy prices and the health service. Meanwhile, some PiS members suggest that Kaczyński will likely forbid open criticism of Ziobro to maintain party discipline, as lawmakers fear for their positions on future electoral lists amid the ongoing conflict between internal factions.
Legal Consequences and Prosecution Inquiry
The National Prosecutor’s Office has launched proceedings to determine if third parties assisted Ziobro in evading criminal responsibility. Although there is currently no legal basis for an international arrest warrant, prosecutors have summoned TV Republika head Tomasz Sakiewicz to explain the nature of Ziobro’s employment. The former minister faces 26 charges, including leading an organized criminal group and abusing his office for criminal activities related to the Justice Fund.