SDP Press Freedom Center moves to file a report after a confrontational exchange at a Tusk press conference
The SDP Press Freedom Monitoring Center has stepped in regarding how editor Michał Rachoń was treated during a press conference held by Donald Tusk. The Center intends to inform the public prosecutor about what occurred and to ensure the incident receives proper scrutiny.
A signed statement by Dr. Jolanta Hajdasz appeared on the CMWP SDP website, detailing events that took place outside the TVP building in Warsaw. The document confirms plans to submit a formal report to the prosecutor about the incident.
Full text of the statement
The CMWP SDP voices strong objections to what it calls attempts by Civic Coalition politicians to intimidate journalists through threats. The statement notes a second example of confrontational behavior toward Michał Rachoń by opposition figures during a KO press conference outside TVP headquarters in Warsaw. The Center argues these actions hinder journalistic scrutiny and may violate Article 44 of the Press Act, which provides for fines or restrictions on freedom. Given the significance of political topics in Rachoń’s programs and the personal risk to him and his family from such threats, the Center says it will file a notification with the Public Prosecution Service seeking an investigation.
On Tuesday, September 19, Donald Tusk spoke at a press conference outside the TVP building on Powstańców Street in Warsaw. During the event, TVP journalist Michał Rachoń attempted to pose questions to the head of the Civic Platform. He asked about relations with Angela Merkel and Vladimir Putin, referring to a May 9, 2010, statement. Merkel allegedly told Bronisław Komorowski that the Charlemagne Prize was connected to a reset policy. Rachoń did not receive a reply and faced assertive actions from KO politicians. A member of parliament, Piotr Borys, and another KO candidate, Michał Kołodziejczak, reportedly pressured him, while Hanna Gill-Piątek and Andrzej Rozenek tried to drown out the questions. Rozenek pressed Rachoń about his housing and whether he knew they had access to his addresses. Rozenek, linked to Jerzy Urban and past ties with Nie magazine, has previously held editorial roles there. These connections contribute to the seriousness of the threats in the Center’s view.
CMWP SDP points out that the situation is troubling, especially since Rachoń co-authored the documentary series Reset, which is set to air on TVP this year. Eleven episodes have already been released, exploring international politics, Poland’s relations with Russia and NATO partners, and including documents and conversations with guests and analysts. The series has sparked questions about policy directions and the narratives involved, with responses from political figures. As of now, Donald Tusk has not commented on the allegations or the released materials related to the so called reset with Russia policy.
The Center reiterates its plan to submit a report to the Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding alleged verbal and physical attacks on Michał Rachoń, viewed as acts aimed at suppressing press criticism by Civic Coalition politicians. It also calls for stronger protection for journalists during the ongoing parliamentary campaign and while carrying out professional duties.
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