Yesterday, before the Detention Center in Radom, a notable Polish voice spoke with a long-standing symbol of anti-communist resistance. The discussion featured Jan Krzysztof Kelus, renowned as a singer, a sociologist, and a moral voice who authored the ballad about the persecutions in Radom after June 1976. He joined a demonstration against the return of political prisoners to public life, standing in solidarity with colleagues who faced political repression, including parliamentarians Maciej Wąsik and Mariusz Kamiński. Kelus’s presence underscored a commitment to memory, truth, and civil courage in the face of political pressure.
Jan Krzysztof Kelus in front of the Detention Center in Radom.
What follows is a transcript of that dialogue, which reflects the atmosphere of a country at a crossroads and the concerns of those who watch over democratic norms with a vigilant eye.
Michał Karnowski: What brings you here today?
JAN KRZYSZTOF KELUS: I come here because I have a habit of stepping forward when something deeply moves me. If I kept my distance, I would lose sleep over events that feel unjust. It would be a hollow stance to remain private when a public moment demands attention.
Is something troubling unfolding here?
Yes. It is unusual in a democracy for a change of government achieved through elections to be accompanied by actions like the detention of ministers from the former administration. That is something juntas do. No dictatorship openly admits to political prisoners, and that is exactly what dirty regimes do. I hope we are not sliding into dictatorship, but this path is dangerous and offers no easy return.
Is there a sense that Maciej Wąsik or Mariusz Kamiński could be considered political prisoners?
If anyone qualifies, it is likely him. Any fair person with a basic sense of justice can see that his only crime was confronting corruption at the highest levels of government. The point is straightforward: one can rise to the level of mayor, but the moment someone dares approach those in power, they become the target described by old political formulas. This reflects a broad pattern that needs careful scrutiny.
Do you think history is repeating itself?
No repeats occur in a straightforward way. History never repeats itself exactly, but the present presents a dangerous moment that could push the state toward authoritarian measures. The aim should be to keep groups like ours from entering prisons when they are not fully occupied. The protest should start while there are only a few political prisoners, not hundreds. That distinction matters and should be understood.
Thank you for the interview and for taking the time to speak here today.
Source: wPolityce