I am raising a concern because something unfolds before observers’ eyes that, in my view, undermines the substance of the state. Ms. Ursula may claim that the Polish government’s conduct offers a blueprint for others, yet questions linger about who leads Poland’s public institutions. Who sits as the president of TVP and is officially registered in the National Court Register? Who holds the role of National Prosecutor? These are questions that matter when the rule of law is being scrutinized on a broad stage.
Bodnar’s controversial moves
The head of the European Commission signaled that two decisions regarding European funds for Poland would be announced in the coming days. The plan would free up to €137 billion from the Cohesion Fund and the Reconstruction Fund. She also expressed admiration for Poland’s ongoing effort to strengthen the rule of law.
Your efforts are resolute and grounded in the reforms you began and the steps already taken toward judicial independence
– stated Ursula von der Leyen.
The lawyer Marek Markiewicz argued that Adam Bodnar’s actions amount to a stark overstatement and contribute to what he described as erosion of the state’s core.
I am concerned because something is happening before our eyes that, in my opinion, destabilizes the very substance of the state. Ms. Ursula may claim that the Polish government’s approach serves as a road map for others, but questions remain about who heads TVP and who is listed in the national register. Who, precisely, is the National Prosecutor? Everything could be possible, some lawyers would say that law has long reflected the ruling class’s will, but now the situation is laid bare. Bodnar’s stance appears to the critic as an overreach by a senior public official in a major country, implying that decrees can resolve all issues. Such a view clashes with fundamental legal principles and the notion of checks and balances.
– the lawyer emphasized.
Bogumił Łoziński noted that if Zbigniew Ziobro had pursued a similar course, it would have triggered a global uproar.
Since the takeover, public media have faced increased pressure. The media landscape has been reshaped, reducing the reach of opposition voices while state-aligned outlets gain prominence. It appears that nationally available media now operate in a constrained environment, with less influence for opposition actors that previously enjoyed broader platforms.
– observed editor Łoziński.
The political impact of the government’s actions
Lawyer Markiewicz highlighted polling indicating that, regardless of the government’s moves, a substantial portion of PO voters intends to support the party in the European Parliament elections.
Despite negative portrayals of the EU, the same voters are projected to back what they see as a working model
– added the lawyer.
Bogumił Łoziński pointed out that PiS appeared to be running on empty and called for a concrete program ahead of the European elections. At present, the opposition seems unable to mobilize effectively.
– stated the editor.
Changes in local voting rules
Dorota Kania flagged a notice circulated in neo-PAP about changes to voting access in local elections for residents who live outside their registered address.
Few noticed the shift, which permits voting outside one’s hometown on election day. A similar phenomenon was observed during the recent parliamentary elections.
We saw this kind of election tourism in play, and it raises questions about how the system balances accessibility with integrity.
Mec. Markiewicz noted that about 35 percent favor a federalized Europe, a stance that suggests a significant portion of the electorate is open to broader structural reforms.
Looking ahead, European elections are likely to frame choices about the continent’s model of governance. If opinions crystalize into broad support for a federalized Europe, that would signal a dramatic shift in regional orientation
– observed the lawyer.
[citation: wPolityce]