Controversial appointment of Maciej Berek to Poland's Constitutional Tribunal sparks legal and political debate
Maciej Berek, a former government minister and close aide to Donald Tusk, was elected by the Sejm as a judge of the Constitutional Tribunal, prompting questions about his legal experience and eligibility.
On September 4, the Sejm voted to install Maciej Berek, a former minister overseeing government policy implementation and a close collaborator of Prime Minister Donald Tusk, as a judge of the Constitutional Tribunal. Critics point to his recent governmental roles and question whether he satisfies the statutory requirement of at least ten years of practice as a lawyer, notary or similar professional. President’s spokesperson Rafał Leśkiewicz has stated that the issue of Berek’s formal eligibility must be resolved before any oath-taking ceremony.
Meanwhile, media outlets have circulated rumors of police being prepared to block Tribunal president Bogdan Święczkowski from his workplace. A poll conducted by prosto.pl shows that public opinion is split on the notion of using force to resolve the stalemate surrounding the court.
Why it matters
The appointment could affect the independence of Poland's top constitutional court and influence the balance of power.
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