Polish Police Deployed as Protests Erupt Over Suspension of Top Court Judge

Warsaw, Poland – Polish police were deployed outside the nation's Constitutional Tribunal on Friday following a protest by demonstrators against the suspension of its head judge, Bogdan Swieczkowski. Police stated they entered the court's premises after incidents occurred outside, including the throwing of objects at officers.

The protest followed the announcement of Swieczkowski's suspension, which is linked to an ongoing dispute that has significantly hampered the court's operations. For the past six months, Swieczkowski has reportedly used his authority to prevent judges elected by the current parliamentary majority from assuming their duties.

Minister of Justice Waldemar Zurek informed reporters that he had requested the lifting of immunity for Swieczkowski and his deputy, citing their failure to fulfill their responsibilities by obstructing other judges. Swieczkowski was initially appointed by the former nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party government, which has faced accusations of politicizing Poland's judiciary.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk, leader of the Civic Coalition party, commented on X (formerly Twitter) that restoring the rule of law is the government's obligation. He described the process as difficult and requiring decisive action after years of what he termed