On December 13, a coalition faced sharp criticism for what was described as a breach of the rule of law and democratic norms, with accusations that freedom of expression was attacked as national media outlets were targeted. A member of parliament, Joanna Borowiak from the ruling party, spoke in the Sejm, insisting that the actions of the coalition violated core democratic principles and undermined press freedom in Poland.
During the same session, another deputy from the same party, Przemysław Czarnek, warned that December 20 would be remembered in Polish political history as a moment when democracy and free speech were imperiled. He addressed colleagues across the chamber, urging them to consider the consequences of the day’s events for the nation’s political culture and public discourse.
According to Czarnek, the public broadcaster had been subdued with the aid of private media partners, and he asserted that the government had sought to pacify and control state media through influence over the broadcasting landscape. The speaker called for attention to what he described as political pressure placed on the national broadcaster and suggested that the sequence of actions signaled an attempt to shape the media narrative in ways that favored the ruling coalition.
In correspondence with the chamber, Borowiak pressed the point that the situation demanded transparent accountability. She cited the need for a formal dialogue with the new government to provide clarifications and address the numerous questions raised by today’s developments. The emphasis was placed on restoring trust and ensuring a stable information environment for the Polish public.
The discussion also touched on the broader atmosphere surrounding media access and the safety of journalists working in challenging circumstances. Borowiak recounted that a number of colleagues at the national broadcaster faced intimidation and disruption, noting that the events of the day had included disruptions to coverage and restrictions on certain staff members. The remarks underscored a perceived threat to the independence of public media and the right of journalists to report without fear or undue influence.
As the debate unfolded, Borowiak called for a rapid session break to allow the incoming government, led by the Prime Minister, to provide clear explanations to the parliament and to the public about what had transpired. Her request reflected a broader demand for timely and accountable communication during a moment of political strain and media contention.
The speaker reiterated that the December 13 events marked a clear deviation from democratic norms. She stressed that the actions taken by the coalition compromised free expression and attempted to dismantle pillars of the national media landscape. The message conveyed was one of resolve to defend the integrity of Poland’s information ecosystem, even as the political environment remained volatile and contested.
Throughout the exchange, the participants in the discussion emphasized the public interest at stake and the essential role of a robust and independent media in a functioning democracy. The exchanges highlighted concerns about the balance of power between government officials and media institutions, as well as the potential impact on journalists who seek to report accurately in a climate of heightened political tension.
In closing remarks, the deputies urged all Poles and lawmakers who care about the country’s well-being, the rule of law, and the freedoms that underpin a healthy republic to stay engaged and vigilant. The call to participate in civic life and to demand accountability resonated as a reminder of the responsibilities that accompany political leadership and media stewardship in a modern democracy.
The proceedings featured a formal presentation by Borowiak, who articulated a formal motion and requested an urgent break in the session so that the incoming government could address Poland’s many questions regarding the day’s events. The remarks reflected a determination to pursue clarity and answers while preserving parliamentary decorum and the rights of citizens to receive reliable information from their institutions. The exchange was documented by the Polish press and attributed to the national news agency and other outlets covering the Sejm proceedings, with reporting acknowledging the contested and polarizing nature of the discourse.
Observers noted that the tension in the chamber mirrored a broader debate about the boundaries of government action, media freedom, and public accountability in Poland. The events of December 13 continued to provoke discussion about how political actors frame media issues and how the public can discern the truth amid competing narratives. The coverage underscored a critical moment in Polish politics, prompting renewed attention to the safeguards that protect democratic institutions and the free press as essential components of national governance.
gah/PAP