Poland: Dispute over Academy of Justice rector dismissal escalates

A political dispute is escalating in Poland regarding the dismissal of Michał Sopiński from his position as rector-commander of the Academy of Justice. While Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek maintains the dismissal decision was validly delivered during the Economic Forum in Karpacz, Sopiński contests the effectiveness of the notification.

MP Janusz Cieszyński released an official note from Prison Service officers that appears to contradict the Ministry of Justice's version of events. The document suggests that officers sought Sopiński at the Academy in Warsaw and later in Karpacz, but instead of speaking to him directly, they reportedly asked forum staff to pass on a request for a meeting.

In response to the disclosure, the Ministry of Justice filed a criminal complaint against Cieszyński, alleging the unlawful removal of case documents from the Ministry. Additionally, the Director General of the Prison Service filed a separate notification regarding the disclosure of sensitive personal data of officers.

Meanwhile, tensions rose at the Academy of Justice headquarters, where police presence was reported following confrontations involving media crews. Lawmakers Antoni Macierewicz and Mariusz Gosek attempted to enter the building to deliver supplies to MP Maria Kurowska, who was inside, leading to a standoff with police.