The first session of the parliamentary investigative committee focusing on operational and reconnaissance activities involving Pegasus is scheduled for February 19, according to committee head Magdalena Sroka (PSL-TD).
She stated that the Internal Security Agency would grant every committee member access to top secret material.
As the committee chair, she announced that Homeland Security would arrange training for all members, including counterintelligence education. Given the sensitivity of the information to be handled, she expressed hope that everyone would complete the training before the committee’s initial substantive meeting.
– Sroka spoke at a press briefing in the Sejm.
Top secret materials
She reiterated that the Internal Security Agency would provide top secret access to each committee member.
This process will take time, which is why adequate time is being set aside for preparation.
– the MP noted.
She added that the committee would take a serious, substantive approach and invited the public to attend the first meeting.
– she stated.
Evidence requests
Another committee member, Marcin Bosacki (KO), indicated that requests for evidence would be submitted at the February 19 session.
Any member of parliament would be able to submit requests to state bodies and to seek evidence about who should be questioned before the committee. While not predicting who would be called and when, Bosacki emphasized that individuals who could have influenced the use of Pegasus in Poland against political opponents would be invited. The aim is to examine the use of the software as a tool against terrorism or the most serious crimes, rather than for political purposes.
– he explained.
He also warned that senior PiS politicians would likely be required to answer questions about how Pegasus was acquired, who financed it, and the roles of various figures, including former justice minister Zbigniew Ziobro, in the decision to employ the spyware against the political opposition.
It remains to be seen whether the investigative committee will issue concrete findings in the Pegasus case before the chair has a complete list of witnesses.
Further coverage and discussion surrounding the Pegasus inquiry are anticipated as the committee advances through its agenda.
Be prepared for developments as lawmakers scrutinize the procurement, funding, and deployment of Pegasus within the political landscape, and as they weigh the implications for civil liberties and national security.
Note: This article reflects statements made by committee members and participants in the proceedings as reported at the time of the briefing.