Judge files criminal complaint against Constitutional Court president over panel appointments

Judge Sławomir Patyra filed a formal notification with the prosecutor on September 28, charging Constitutional Court president Bogdan Święczkowski with repeatedly designating judging panels in contravention of the governing law to affect case outcomes. The allegation asserts that Święczkowski's actions aimed to manipulate verdicts by sidestepping legal procedures. Coalition-government politicians praised the move, interpreting it as a step toward ending the president's alleged impunity.

The Court issued a statement characterising the complaint as possibly personal revenge, while also maintaining that Święczkowski's decisions on court organization were made within the bounds of his authority. Disciplinary proceedings against the president have been initiated, and the matter may lead to a request for lifting his immunity.