The barriers in front of the Sejm return amid a tense protest atmosphere
When the protest planning began to unfold in Warsaw, new barriers were again placed before the Sejm. Journalists were told by Jacek Cichocki, the head of the Sejm Chancellery, that the barriers were installed by the police after a careful risk assessment tied to today’s demonstration. He noted that the barriers went up in the morning and would stay until the evening unless circumstances demanded otherwise.
The barriers are back in front of the Sejm
The presence of barriers in front of the Sejm was visible, and officials sought to reassure the public that the measures were temporary. In conversations with reporters, Cichocki explained that the barriers were erected to manage potential risks ahead of the scheduled protest that begins before the Sejm at 4 p.m. He added that the police had evaluated the situation and requested the cordon as a precaution for the safety of demonstrators and law enforcement personnel.
Officials expressed hope that participants would respond to any calls for peaceful conduct and that the gathering would proceed without incident. The goal, as stated, was to preserve safety while allowing citizens to express themselves and for security forces to perform their duties effectively.
– Cichocki emphasized a willingness to adjust the setup if needed, underscoring the Sejm’s openness to the public while balancing security concerns. He suggested that officers would form a managed perimeter, enabling orderly demonstrations and reducing the risk of disruptions.
The Sejm remained accessible to the public, with assurances that the spaces would be opened as broadly as possible. Signals had been received indicating the possibility of aggressive behavior from some participants, prompting continued caution and orderly management of crowds as organizers and authorities monitor developments.
– The Sejm Chancellery head added that the barriers were a precautionary measure intended to protect everyone involved while the situation remained fluid.
What motivated the decision to install barriers
In a separate address, the rotation marshal discussed his visit to a local high school in the city. During a citizen lesson, questions arose about the barriers again facing the Sejm. The marshal explained that the barriers were placed after consultations with police, who stressed the importance of protecting the health and safety of both officers and demonstrators. He stressed that the plan was for the barriers to be temporary and for the cordon to be managed by officers rather than a broader presence of security personnel.
The marshal clarified that the decision was not a political gesture but a safety protocol grounded in the police’s assessment of the day’s risks. He stated that he would not endorse any action that endangered life or health, even if it drew political commentary about party positions. The ultimate aim was clear: ensure public safety while allowing lawful expression of views.
Public figures react and speak about expectations
Among the political figures commenting on the situation, Piotr Müller of a major party remarked that barrier placements are not unusual for public gatherings. He also noted that there had been prior statements suggesting barriers would not be needed, highlighting perceived inconsistencies in messaging. The broader context included the ongoing transition in national leadership and the timing of demonstrations aligned with party events and policy debates.
The protest, titled the “Protest of the Free Poles,” was planned for 4 p.m. and featured a lineup of speakers from the organizing group. A separate march toward a central square was anticipated to coincide with the event, culminating in a route that would lead to a prominent square near the city’s TV headquarters. Observers stressed the importance of peaceful participation and responsible conduct by all sides.
Commentators and observers urged calm and responsibility, pointing out that the barriers were a precautionary measure intended to prevent disorder and safeguard participants. The conversation reflected a broader debate about public demonstrations, accountability, and the proper balance between freedom of assembly and security needs.
In this evolving situation, authorities continued to monitor developments and communicate with the public about expectations for orderly conduct. As with many such events, the focus remained on ensuring a safe environment for expression while upholding the rule of law and public safety. The unfolding day highlighted the delicate balance between openness and security in a democratic capital.
Note: This report summarizes statements from official briefings and public remarks, with attribution to the involved offices and participants as noted in media coverage. It reflects ongoing coverage of the protest dynamics and the measures taken to maintain safety and order as events progressed.