Former Polish Justice Minister Shelters in Budapest to Avoid Arrest
Zbigniew Ziobro, the former Polish justice minister in the last Conservative (PiS) government, did not attend a parliamentary hearing on lifting his immunity from prosecution. He is facing 26 indictments for alleged abuse of power brought by the Tusk government.
Since October 27, Ziobro has remained in Budapest to avoid arrest in Poland. The parliamentary committee approved the justice ministry’s request to waive his immunity and allow his detention pending trial. The committee’s recommendations are scheduled for a parliamentary vote on November 7.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s coalition, holding the majority, has already approved motions to lift immunity for other indicted PiS officials. Ziobro denies all charges against him.
During a press conference in Budapest on November 6, Ziobro stated, “I am not going back to Poland because I have been told I would be arrested and held before the hearing, which would be unlawful.”
The accusations against Ziobro stem from conflicts with EU institutions and his controversial tenure as justice minister.
Summary
Zbigniew Ziobro avoids arrest by staying in Budapest amid numerous charges from the Tusk government; his parliamentary immunity is being lifted for prosecution in Poland.