Sejm Marshal Włodzimierz Czarzasty has found himself at the center of a political scandal. The case concerns the politician's alleged business ties with a Russian citizen, the lack of a security questionnaire from the Internal Security Agency, and an unprecedented severing of contacts by the U.S. ambassador. Additional controversy stems from the late addition to the register of benefits regarding membership on the board of a foundation linked to Marian Kubalica. The opposition is demanding the marshal's resignation, pointing to a threat to state security.

Allegations of Russian ties

Revelation of Sejm Marshal Włodzimierz Czarzasty's business relations with Svetlana Chestnykh and his membership on the board of a foundation headed by Marian Kubalica, who promotes Kremlin narratives.

Lack of Internal Security Agency security questionnaire

The politician served on the commission for special services for two years, avoiding vetting by counterintelligence, raising concerns of an intelligence nature.

Boycott by the USA

Ambassador Thomas Rose officially severed relations with the Sejm Marshal after his critical statements about President Donald Trump.

Violation of the mandate act

The marshal made an entry into the register of benefits with significant delay, which experts consider a breach of statutory provisions on a deputy's obligations.

The situation around Włodzimierz Czarzasty escalated after a series of media publications regarding his relationship with Svetlana Chestnykh, a Russian woman suspected of ties to the Kremlin. Controversy was sparked by the fact that the politician served for two years on the parliamentary commission for special services without undergoing verification by the Internal Security Agency. Media also revealed that the marshal violated the provisions of the Act on the Exercise of the Mandate of a Deputy and Senator, updating the register of benefits only after journalists intervened. The entry concerned serving on the board of a foundation headed by Marian Kubalica, known for pro-Russian views. Simultaneously, a deep diplomatic crisis is ongoing in relations with Washington. U.S. Ambassador Thomas Rose announced as early as February 5 a complete severing of contacts with the Sejm Marshal. The reasons are said to be Czarzasty's public statements attacking President Donald Trump and questioning the readiness of Polish soldiers. The marshal counters the allegations, declaring that he does not intend to talk with diplomats "on his knees," which further polarizes the Polish political scene. According to the Polish Constitution, the Sejm Marshal temporarily assumes the duties of the President of the Republic of Poland in the event of the president's death or inability to perform the office, making the issue of his security clearance crucial for state continuity. The latest public opinion polls indicate that the case has resonated widely in society. Over 62% of Poles have heard about the controversies surrounding the marshal. Attitudes toward his potential resignation are strongly correlated with party preferences – while opposition voters mostly demand Czarzasty's departure, supporters of the ruling coalition remain divided. Former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki framed the issue radically, stating that the choice is between the duo Tusk-Czarzasty and state security. „I will talk with everyone, but not on my knees.” — Włodzimierz CzarzastyYes: 44.9, No: 38.2, Hard to say: 16.962.6% — of surveyed Poles have heard about the Svetlana Chestnykh case

Mentioned People

  • Włodzimierz Czarzasty — Marshal of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland, leader of the Left party, central figure in controversies regarding ties to a Russian woman.
  • Thomas Rose — Ambassador of the United States to Poland, who announced a diplomatic boycott of Marshal Czarzasty.
  • Swietłana Czestnych — Russian woman, business partner of Marshal Czarzasty's wife, holding Polish citizenship.
  • Mateusz Morawiecki — Former Prime Minister of Poland, vice-president of Law and Justice, sharply criticizing Włodzimierz Czarzasty's stance.
  • Donald Tusk — Prime Minister of Poland, mentioned in the context of political responsibility for the marshal's actions.
  • Leszek Miller — Former prime minister who criticized Czarzasty for diplomatic mistakes and avoiding verification by services.