Polish President Faces criticism Over Judicial and Intelligence Appointments
A recent survey reveals a divided Polish public regarding President Karol Nawrocki’s controversial decisions to withhold nominations for 46 judges and refuse to sign off on promotions for 136 intelligence officers. The actions, taken in November 2025, have sparked a debate over presidential authority and it’s impact on the country’s legal and security frameworks.
President Nawrocki announced on Wednesday that he would not appoint the 46 judges, citing concerns that they questioned the current constitutional order in Poland.He invoked a 2012 Constitutional Tribunal ruling affirming the president’s right to both nominate and refuse to nominate judges. This decision follows a pattern of asserting presidential prerogative in judicial matters.
The president also leveled accusations against Minister of Justice Waldemar Żurek, alleging that he was inciting judges to undermine the legal system and act inconsistently with the Polish constitution. This echoes earlier statements made in August, upon taking office, were President Nawrocki urged judges to avoid “crazies” allegedly inspired by Minister Żurek.
Separately, on November 7th, President Nawrocki declined to approve the first officer rank nominations for 136 intelligence officers. He justified this move by stating that Donald Tusk had prohibited the heads of the secret services from meeting with the President, framing it as another instance of a constitutional dispute between the government and the presidency.
Did you know?-The Polish Constitution grants the President significant powers regarding judicial appointments, but the extent of this power has been a source of ongoing political contention.
A survey conducted by SW Research for rp.pl on November 12-13, 2025, among 800 internet users over the age of 18, revealed a complex public response. 30.9% of respondents expressed a positive evaluation of the president’s decisions, while 39.4% viewed them negatively. A significant portion – 18.8% – remained undecided, and 10.8% were unaware of the situation.
The survey data also highlighted demographic divisions. Respondents over the age of fifty were significantly more likely to express negative opinions (53%), as were individuals with higher education (44%) and those with a net income between PLN 5,000 and PLN 7,000 (46%). “Respondents over the age of fifty are much more likely to express a negative opinion on this subject,” noted Małgorzata Bodzon, senior project manager at SW Research.
Pro tip:-Polish political discourse often centers on interpretations of the Constitution. Understanding the past context of these interpretations is key to grasping current events.
A parallel study conducted by the National Research Panel Ariadna for WP indicated that 39% of respondents agreed with President Nawrocki’s assertion of a decisive role in the judicial nomination process, with 21% strongly agreeing and 18% leaning in support. Conversely, 36% disagreed, with 26% strongly opposing and 10% expressing moderate opposition.
These decisions and the ensuing public reaction underscore th
Reader question:-How might these actions impact the independence of the polish judiciary in the long run?
Expanded News Report:
Why: President Karol Nawrocki is facing criticism for actions perceived as overreach of presidential authority and attempts to influence the independence of the judiciary and intelligence services. He claims his actions are based on upholding the constitution and addressing concerns about the loyalty and impartiality of judges and intelligence officers.
Who: The key players are President Karol Nawrocki, Minister
