Poland's Ruling Party Nominates Controversial Figures for European Parliament

Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the leader of Poland's ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party, announced that former interior minister Mariusz Kaminski and his deputy Maciej Wasik will be on PiS's electoral lists for the 2024 European Parliament elections in Poland. Kaczynski described Kaminski and Wasik as "highly suitable candidates" but acknowledged that their legal situation needs to be clarified.

Kaminski and Wasik were previously sentenced to two years in prison for abuse of power while heading the Central Anti-Corruption Bureau. They were later pardoned by the president. The two now face new charges related to illegally participating in a parliamentary vote and the use of the Pegasus spyware against political opponents.

Why this matters: The nomination of controversial figures with legal troubles to represent Poland in the European Parliament raises concerns about PiS's commitment to rule of law and democratic norms. It also has the potential to strain Poland's relations with the European Union, which has previously clashed with PiS over judicial reforms seen as undermining the independence of courts.

Meanwhile, former PiS Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has ruled out running for the European Parliament himself. Morawiecki stated, "I will not be a candidate in the European Parliament elections. I have other important tasks ahead of me."

The nomination of Kaminski and Wasik, despite their controversial past and ongoing legal issues, highlights PiS's willingness to back loyalists even in the face of criticism. As the 2024 European Parliament elections approach, the legal fate of these candidates and the impact of their nomination on Poland's standing in the EU remain to be seen.

Key Takeaways

• PiS party nominates 2 convicted officials for EU Parliament elections
• Kaminski and Wasik previously sentenced for abuse of power, later pardoned
• Nomination raises concerns about PiS's commitment to rule of law
• Morawiecki, former PiS PM, rules out running for EU Parliament
• Nomination highlights PiS's support for loyalists despite legal issues