Former Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro Avoids Arrest by Staying in Budapest
Zbigniew Ziobro, the former justice minister from Poland’s last Conservative (PiS) government, has not appeared at a parliamentary hearing regarding the lifting of his immunity from prosecution. He faces 26 charges related to alleged abuse of power brought by the government under Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Since October 27, Ziobro has been staying in Budapest to avoid arrest in Poland. The parliamentary committee has approved the justice ministry’s request to lift his immunity, allowing for his arrest and detention pending trial. This recommendation will be put to a parliamentary vote on November 7.
Political Context and Legal Proceedings
- Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s coalition holds a parliamentary majority.
- The coalition has approved lifting immunity for all other indicted PiS officials.
- Ziobro denies all allegations against him.
Ziobro’s Statement from Budapest
“I am not returning to Poland because I was informed I would be arrested and held before the hearing took place, which would be unlawful.”
Background
During his tenure, Ziobro frequently clashed with EU institutions. His current indictments are part of ongoing political and legal tensions in Poland under the Tusk government.
Author’s summary: Former Polish justice minister Zbigniew Ziobro avoids prosecution by staying in Budapest, denying charges amid political strife and pending parliamentary decisions on his immunity.