Ahead of today’s Sejm session, the speaker, Szymon Hołownia, spoke at a press briefing about what the chamber’s mood and conduct might look like. He anticipated spirited exchanges and pointed remarks, but did not expect any physical clash. When asked about the fate of the Confederation’s deputy chairman, he indicated no decision had been made. On depoliticizing justice, he emphasized that reforms should move forward in a climate of dialogue with wide participation from all sides. This stance reflects a belief that dialogue, not partisan maneuvering, should drive change. Attribution: Sejm briefing coverage
As the session commenced, the Sejm pressed ahead with the draft budget and related amendments. The chamber was also poised for a second reading of a resolution appointing a commission of inquiry into Pegasus. Attention centered on a government amendment to the law governing higher education and science, and expectations grew that European Parliament members would name the President of the Office for the Protection of Personal Data. Attribution: parliamentary proceedings report
During the briefing, Hołownia was asked whether he expected any obstruction by PiS MPs that could derail parliamentary proceedings. He responded that he does not control or script individual MPs’ actions, but he does not foresee a day defined by disruption, believing constructive debate serves the country far better than procedural stalling. Attribution: press briefing notes
Hołownia stressed that while he cannot predict every move, he cannot condone tactics that derail proceedings, such as blocking the podium or interrupting debates. He argued that such actions do not help the nation and that the public expects representatives to engage in meaningful dialogue even when disagreements are sharp. This stance signals a modern view of parliamentary engagement aimed at reducing long-standing disruptions that hinder the Sejm from addressing pressing national issues. Attribution: policy commentary
He reiterated that there was no expectation of confrontation on this day and did not anticipate a physical altercation within the chamber. Attribution: spokesperson remarks
The Sejm is prepared for multiple scenarios
Hołownia noted that the Sejm’s Chancellery and Presidium are ready for various possibilities. He acknowledged that his own hope for a calm day might face challenges, yet his trust in people remained intact. He expected lively exchanges and robust debates within the Sejm while aiming to avoid disappointment by keeping dialogue open and productive. Attribution: session briefing summary
Considerations regarding Deputy Marshal Bosak
The Sejm’s agenda included addressing the opposition’s request to dismiss Deputy Marshal Krzysztof Bosak from the Presidium in response to the Hanukkah candle ceremony incident, during which a party member used a powder fire extinguisher and then took the podium. The coalition argued that Bosak did not react decisively enough, allowing the episode to unfold. The left contended that Bosak’s position contributed to an anti-Semitic critique of the candlelight ceremony. When asked whether Bosak’s role in the Presidium might end, Hołownia said discussions with coalition partners were ongoing to determine an appropriate course of action. Attribution: chamber debate records
Hołownia highlighted two key points: Bosak’s presence as an opposition figure adds political tension that can be constructive if differing viewpoints are openly debated. He stressed the importance of hearing opposing arguments and engaging through dialogue rather than resorting to confrontation. The final decision remained unresolved as party groups continued deliberations throughout the day. Attribution: political analysis
Bodnar’s actions and the path forward
Asked about moves by Justice Minister and Attorney General Adam Bodnar, Hołownia expressed support for measures aimed at reducing persistent tensions within the justice system. He suggested that if a national prosecutor and the attorney general cannot reach an agreement due to ongoing obstruction, an alternative path would be needed. He argued that Bodnar’s approach could drive systemic changes that lessen politicization of the prosecutor’s office and the judiciary, ensuring independence of the prosecutor while the executive branch supports necessary reforms. The aim is to pursue a broader reform through inclusive dialogue among all participants and to seek a peaceful national resolution. Attribution: reform overview
Hołownia described Bodnar’s plan as systemic and feasible if pursued through discussions involving the president and the opposition, with the goal of identifying workable solutions that preserve the rule of law and constitutional norms. Attribution: policy briefing
The government’s role and the broader reform agenda
Hołownia urged the government to clarify its actions and to show that justice reforms safeguard the system rather than serve political retaliation. He commented on the media landscape, emphasizing transparency and accountability in the reform process. He argued that targeted actions must be complemented by systemic changes and that all stakeholders should participate in the process. The emphasis was on open dialogue with the president and the opposition to find practical solutions. Attribution: governance discussion
Recent organizational changes within the Ministry of Justice were noted, including the appointment of a new acting national prosecutor. A constitutional order subsequently required the court to pause certain actions pending review, highlighting ongoing legal and institutional debates about these roles and procedures. The National Prosecutor’s Office asserted that the acting national prosecutor designation held legal relevance, while other authorities offered differing interpretations. These developments illustrate the balance needed between independent investigative agencies and executive oversight within a framework that upholds the rule of law and constitutional norms. Attribution: legal developments summary
These discussions reflect the complexity of maintaining independence in investigative bodies while ensuring accountability and stability in governance, especially when reforms touch on core institutions of justice and the rule of law. The objective remains to foster a resilient system where dialogue prevails over confrontation, and reforms advance through constructive, inclusive engagement that respects constitutional processes and democratic norms. Attribution: institutional reform analysis