Controversy Around a Deputy Minister Appointment
The daughter of MEP Róża Thun, linked with Poland 2050, held a role within the Ministry of Digitalization. The move sparked opposition and sparked debate in the media. Gazeta Wyborcza reported that Donald Tusk ordered her dismissal. This incident raises questions about the December 13 coalition’s pledge to depoliticize government appointments. Critics point to concerns about nepotism within the current administration. Szymon Hołownia, chair of the Sejm and a leading figure in Poland 2050, expressed regret that such a highly qualified professional would not contribute to the Polish state. The question arises whether there is truly a shortage of experts in the digital sector in Poland.
Thun’s daughter was noted to have served as deputy director at the Central Information Technology Center in the Ministry of Digital Affairs, an institution led by Krzysztof Gawkowski of the New Left. It was suggested that Tusk might have chosen to dismiss her so she would be in the ministry for only a brief period.
The move to bring the MEP’s daughter into the ministry was interpreted as a challenge to point 68 of the Civic Coalition’s plan titled 100 specifics for 100 days. The plan calls for transparent competitions that minimize influence from family and political relationships.
Storm in the Coalition
Maria Thun has substantial experience in the digital sector, though she is the daughter of a prominent parliament member. Reports indicated tensions surfaced within the coalition as a result of the decision. Some sources suggested the decision hinged on the possibility of appointing Deputy Minister of Digitalization Michał Gramatyka, connected with Poland 2050, later in 2050.
According to the Third Way, the ministry would have benefited from an experienced professional while Rose Thun was not aware of her daughter’s statements.
It is often the case that immediate family members of public officials bear the burden of reduced opportunities for active involvement in public life.
– Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz commented on Radio ZET, noting the need for caution to avoid situations that generate doubt. He cautioned that even a well-prepared and capable appointment could provoke far-reaching concerns.
Transparency is essential
– he added.
Hołownia: “Professional with experience”
The Speaker of the Sejm also commented on the matter, regretting that the MP’s daughter would not be able to continue her work at the ministry.
Regarding Maria Thun, Hołownia stated that it is a pity a professional with extensive experience and undeniable competence will not serve the Polish government or its state institutions.
– he remarked.
The question remains whether there exists a real shortage of digitalization experts in the labor market that would justify giving a government role to a politician’s daughter.
The government remains under Prime Minister Tusk, who makes the final decisions. Hołownia stressed respect for the coalition’s procedural balance and the division of responsibilities, while denying that the events signal any dissolution of the coalition. When asked whether this could be seen as political revenge for Róża Thun’s departure from the Civic Platform to join Poland 2050, he replied that such acerbic motives were unlikely.
Hołownia added that he knows Donald Tusk only lightly and would not suspect him of petty motives.
Some observers question whether the government’s purging of state finances, public media, and prosecutors might have broader implications that deserve greater attention from the Prime Minister. Yet Hołownia continued to stress his respect for the Prime Minister’s decisions, while acknowledging that finding experts with such credentials remains challenging.
There is a sense that hiring dynamics may be influenced by how recruiters reach candidates directly, presenting offers, and whether the ministry’s working conditions are attractive given the political climate. The broader question remains whether other candidates across public institutions and media bodies comprise the most capable professionals in Poland.
READ MORE:
– The December 13 coalition’s stance on state finances and party nominations; critiques of the 68-point program
– The Supreme Court report on state assets and the responses from public officials about governance challenges
– Ongoing debates about public media reform and the role of new leadership in national agencies
— The evolving landscape of public administration and transparency in Poland
Attempting to balance political divisions, the coalition continues to navigate questions about competency, transparency, and the best use of specialized expertise within state institutions.