Mateusz Morawiecki, the former Prime Minister of Poland, has been charged for exceeding his powers in the 2020 presidential election proceeding solely by postal votes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He refused to testify, arguing he acted constitutionally during a crisis and asserting political persecution by the current government.
Former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has been charged with overstepping his authority regarding a presidential election conducted solely by postal votes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Morawiecki, who departed office in late 2023, appeared at the District Prosecutor’s Office in Warsaw for questioning but opted not to provide a testimony.
Prosecutorial spokesperson Piotr Skiba informed the press that Morawiecki faces charges for exceeding his powers and neglecting his official duties. Upon his arrival, he asserted that his actions in 2020 were motivated by the public health crisis, claiming to fulfill his responsibilities as prime minister.
Asserting his constitutional duty to conduct the election within a specified timeframe, Morawiecki waived his immunity as a lawmaker to participate in the proceedings. He contended that his prosecution is a politically motivated attack by the current government led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Supporters gathered to rally behind Morawiecki, voicing their solidarity.
These charges arise amidst Tusk’s government’s efforts to hold the former conservative administration accountable for alleged legal violations and corrupt practices, allegations that Morawiecki and his associates vehemently deny. A court previously determined in 2020 that the decision to mandate postal voting through the national postal service contravened multiple legal provisions.
In summary, former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki is under legal scrutiny for his handling of the 2020 election amid the pandemic, with claims of overstepping his powers. Morawiecki maintains that he acted in the public’s best interest while contending that his prosecution is politically driven. This case underscores ongoing tensions between the former and current administrations in Poland regarding rule of law and governance practices.
Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com
