Story perspectives

Poland's Parliament Swears in Judges Amid Legitimacy Dispute

4/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Wlodzimierz Czarzasty, Speaker of the Polish Parliament, accepted oaths from four judges elected in March.
President Karol Nawrocki previously swore in two judges but rejected the four, citing approval rules.
The judges-elect argued they must begin work immediately and conducted their own swearing-in.
Nawrocki's chief of staff condemned the actions as anti-judges and nullified mandates.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk leads a ruling coalition amid disputes over judicial appointments and legitimacy.

History

Historical Context

Since the 2015 election, Poland's Law and Justice party (PiS) has faced accusations of undermining judicial independence, leading to a constitutional crisis. The European Union intervened, citing threats to the rule of law, with 27 member states supporting measures against Poland. Ongoing disputes over judicial appointments reflect this historical struggle, as the new government seeks to reverse PiS reforms amid tensions with EU institutions.

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Story summary

Wlodzimierz Czarzasty, Speaker of the Polish Parliament, accepted oaths from four judges elected in March.
President Karol Nawrocki previously swore in two judges but rejected the four, citing approval rules.
The judges-elect argued they must begin work immediately and conducted their own swearing-in.
Nawrocki's chief of staff condemned the actions as anti-judges and nullified mandates.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk leads a ruling coalition amid disputes over judicial appointments and legitimacy.

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