Akademia Wymiaru Sprawiedliwości faces unrest over rector dispute

Tensions are escalating at the Akademia Wymiaru Sprawiedliwości (AWS) following a dispute over the institution's leadership. The conflict stems from the Ministry of Justice's decision to remove the current rector, Dr. Michał Sopiński, a move that opposition politicians claim violates the university's Senate's authority to appoint leadership.

Security measures have intensified, with barriers being installed around the academy overnight. During the unrest, PiS MP Dariusz Matecki reportedly climbed over the academy's fence to attempt entry. Following police intervention, Matecki left the premises, though authorities are reportedly considering proceedings regarding a violation of domestic peace.

Opposition figures, including MP Mariusz Gosek and Zbigniew Bogucki, have criticized the government's actions, characterizing them as an unlawful attempt to influence the independence of the institution. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice has cited irregularities regarding doctoral processes and political activity as reasons for the rector's removal.