Former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has been charged with abuse of power related to the failed 2020 presidential postal vote, costing PLN 70 million. He denies the allegations, claiming political motivation, while the opposition views the situation critically. Morawiecki maintains that his decisions were in Poland’s best interest during the pandemic. His case represents ongoing tensions within Polish politics as he faces legal repercussions for past actions.
In a recent development, former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has been charged by prosecutors regarding his role in the unsuccessful 2020 presidential postal vote, resulting in a financial loss of over PLN 70 million (approximately €16.8 million). Morawiecki, a prominent figure in the previous ruling Law and Justice party (PiS), voluntarily waived his legal immunity and attended a scheduled session at the prosecutor’s office in Warsaw where he faced accusations of abuse of power.
Spokesman Piotr Skiba confirmed that Morawiecki faces charges of both abuse of power and dereliction of duty, with potential penalties including a maximum prison term of three years. The postal election, initiated during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, was eventually canceled despite significant expenditures already incurred for its organization, leading to allegations from opposition parties of political maneuvering benefitting the incumbent president Andrzej Duda.
Morawiecki has firmly asserted his innocence, claiming the accusations he faces are driven by political motivations from the current administration. On social media platform X, he reiterated his commitment to making tough decisions for the country’s welfare during the pandemic crisis, emphasizing his belief that the government acted appropriately under challenging circumstances. He expressed confidence in his actions, stating, “When the world came to a standstill due to the pandemic, I acted in Poland’s best interest—and I continue to do so. I wouldn’t change a thing.”
In September 2020, Morawiecki was found by an administrative court to have grossly violated laws governing election procedures, including constitutional breaches. His appeals were subsequently dismissed by Poland’s Supreme Administrative Court, which led to the current criminal proceedings. Justice Minister Adam Bodnar previously requested the parliament to revoke Morawiecki’s immunity for prosecution purposes, underscoring the serious nature of the allegations.
Government spokesman Piotr Müller has been vocal in defending Morawiecki, alleging that the current leadership fears him due to his potential to reclaim power. He claimed that the current administration is attempting to tarnish Morawiecki’s reputation with false accusations. Similarly, MEP Marlena Maląg stressed that Morawiecki’s decisions in the face of the crisis will ultimately be recognized in history.
Conversely, members of the ruling coalition view this situation critically, with Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak declaring that the consequence of the previous PiS government will be remembered unfavorably, especially with a former prime minister facing criminal charges. Following his political career, Morawiecki was recently appointed as the president of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR).
The legal charges against former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki stem from his involvement in the failed postal election of 2020, resulting in significant financial loss. While he maintains that the accusations are politically motivated, opposition voices highlight the gravity of the situation. As this legal process unfolds, it reflects broader tensions between former and current government factions. Morawiecki’s potential return to power remains a point of contention within Polish politics, impacting future governance.
Original Source: www.euractiv.com
