Sejm Elects Six New Judges to Constitutional Tribunal Amid Political Conflict

The Sejm elected six new judges to the Constitutional Tribunal on March 13, 2026, marking a significant step in the ongoing overhaul of the Polish legal system. Minister of Justice and Prosecutor General Waldemar Żurek called on President Karol Nawrocki to immediately accept the oaths of the newly appointed jurists. The election of the six judges is described by some commentators as the easiest part of a broader operation to reform the country's highest constitutional court. The Constitutional Tribunal has been at the center of a protracted legal and political dispute regarding its composition and legitimacy. The Constitutional Tribunal was established in 1982 and began its judicial activity in 1986. Its primary task is the judicial control of the constitutionality of law, ensuring that lower-level legal norms are consistent with the Constitution. The current reform efforts follow years of controversy surrounding the appointment of judges and the functioning of the court under previous administrations.

Minister Waldemar Żurek emphasized that the President has a legal obligation to swear in the new judges without delay to ensure the continuity of the court's work. During his address, the Minister of Justice warned of a potential "plan B" should the President refuse to cooperate with the parliamentary appointments. Waldemar Żurek, who has served as Minister of Justice and Prosecutor General since 2025, stated that the current situation requires decisive action to restore legal order. President Karol Nawrocki, who assumed office in August 2025, has not yet officially responded to the Sejm's decision or the Minister's appeal. „Ma obowiązek uczynić to niezwłocznie” (He has an obligation to do so immediately) — Waldemar Żurek via gazetapl

The parliamentary decision met with sharp criticism from the opposition, led by Law and Justice (PiS) chairman Jarosław Kaczyński. The PiS leader described the newly elected body as a "special court" and asserted that the current proceedings represent a dismantling of the existing legal system. Jarosław Kaczyński stated that the election would not be recognized by "any reasonable person" and warned that those responsible for the appointments would eventually be held accountable. The opposition's rhetoric highlights the deep polarization within the Polish parliament regarding the legitimacy of the judicial selection process. „To zostanie rozliczone” (This will be settled) — Jarosław Kaczyński via FAKT24.pl

Beyond the political implications, the appointments have drawn attention to the financial status and assets of the incoming judges. Reports indicate that the positions at the Tribunal carry significant salaries and benefits, which have become a point of public discussion following the vote. While the government maintains that the election of the six judges is a necessary step toward stabilizing the judiciary, critics argue that the move further complicates the legal landscape. The ongoing dispute continues to define the relationship between the executive branch and the presidency under the administration of Karol Nawrocki. Judicial Appointments Status: Selection Body (before: Sejm (previous term), after: Sejm (March 13, 2026)); Judges Elected (before: Disputed previous appointments, after: 6 new judges elected)