Poland's Supreme Court chief nomination fuels PiS infighting

President Karol Nawrocki appointed Zbigniew Kapiński as the First President of the Supreme Court, a move that drew criticism from Law and Justice (PiS) leader Jarosław Kaczyński before the nomination was announced.

Within PiS, members describe heated reactions, with some saying the party was largely indifferent while others claim that political commentator Cenckiewicz had to "pump up" support for the nominee. Sources also point to Zbigniew Bogucki, chief of the President’s Office, whose reduced media presence has sparked speculation that his influence helped secure the appointment and that he may have broader political ambitions.

The controversy highlights broader tensions in the ruling party over upcoming judicial appointments, especially as the new National Council of the Judiciary (KRS) begins issuing recommendations. Observers warn that the dispute could affect the president’s future decisions on judicial promotions and underscore ongoing struggles over Poland’s judicial reforms.