Orlen investigation targets fuel price manipulation during 2023 elections

Polish prosecutors are investigating allegations of unjustified fuel price reductions at Orlen during the 2023 election campaign. The Internal Security Agency (ABW) has detained five current and former Orlen managers in connection with the case. Prosecutors allege that political decisions were made to lower fuel prices during the August to October 2023 campaign period, which may have also led to fuel shortages and distributor malfunctions.

Daniel Obajtek, a Member of the European Parliament and former Orlen CEO, has dismissed the investigation as a “scandal,” stating he would be honored if held responsible for ensuring Poles paid less for fuel. However, MEPs Dariusz Joński and Michał Szczerba have criticized these remarks, suggesting the price cuts were politically motivated.

In a broader context of legal scrutiny facing the Law and Justice (PiS) party, Przemysław Czarnek has expressed concerns regarding potential “revenge” from the current administration. This follows legal developments such as former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki facing charges of exceeding authority and failing to perform duties related to the 2020 “envelope elections.”