Sławomir Mentzen sparks controversy over remarks on female police officers

Sławomir Mentzen, a leader of the Konfederacja party, has sparked significant political controversy following a social media video mocking newly appointed female police officers in Lower Silesia. In the video, Mentzen sarcastically suggested that the presence of women in the force would not deter organized crime or foreign gangs.

The remarks, which included images of the women, drew widespread condemnation from government officials and members of parliament, who labeled the comments sexist and disrespectful. Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński criticized the remarks, stating that the officers serve Poland with more courage than the politician does with his videos.

In response to the backlash, Sylwia Szary, a former officer and local police union leader, has challenged Mentzen to participate in a standard police physical fitness test. Minister Kierwiński supported this challenge, questioning if Mentzen is “macho on the internet, but not in reality.”

Official records indicate that the recent recruitment in Lower Silesia included 150 new officers, consisting of 85 men and 65 women. The recruitment process requires all candidates, regardless of gender, to pass the same rigorous physical tests, including ball throws, sit-ups, and shuttle runs.