EU Commission: Polish Parliament has right to appoint judges to the Constitutional Court

The European Commission has expressed concern over the unrest surrounding Poland's Constitutional Tribunal, following a live broadcasted incident outside the courthouse on Friday night. The crisis has reignited a long-standing dispute that has plagued Poland for over a decade.

Commission spokesperson stated that the appointment of eight new members to the Constitutional Tribunal is the responsibility of Poland's parliament, the Sejm, and lies within its constitutional authority. The Commission also cited a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights, which issued interim measures on May 5, 2026, urging Polish authorities to refrain from obstructing the judicial duties of judges appointed by the Sejm in March 2026.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk addressed the nation in a televised speech on Saturday, describing Friday's events as "scandalous incidents" and emphasizing that restoring calm does not equate to accepting lawlessness or violence. Tusk vowed to restore conditions for independent justice and the rule of law, stressing that a democratic state must be strong enough to enforce justice.

The crisis escalated on Friday night when President Karol Nawrocki tried to enter the Constitutional Tribunal building amidst a deadlock over the appointment of new judges. Police surrounded the building and the confrontation was broadcast live on television, highlighting the growing standoff between the president and the government over the composition of the country's highest court.

The Polish government claims it is pursuing necessary reforms to restore the rule of law after years of alleged interference by the Law and Justice (PiS) party. However, the opposition accuses Tusk's government of attempting a coup. European conservatives have condemned the Polish government's actions, describing them as a violation of the rule of law and backing President Nawrocki.

They urged European institutions not to ignore the issue and stressed that respect for national sovereignty and judicial independence should be upheld, regardless of political alliances.