Poland debates plans to establish a commission to investigate Russian influence.

President Duda said he would sign a bill to establish a commission to investigate Russian influence in Poland, a move that has sparked controversy in the country.

Polish President Andrzej Duda said on May 29 that he believes a bill to establish a commission to investigate Russian influence should be implemented. The bill, which was rejected by the opposition-controlled Senate earlier this month, was passed by the populist-controlled lower house on May 26.

According to the bill, a nine-member committee will be appointed by the Polish Parliament. The committee will appoint both prosecutors and judges to determine whether individuals were influenced by Russia between 2007 and 2022. Those convicted could be banned from holding positions related to public finance and classified information for 10 years. The bill does not mention an appeals mechanism.

"I hope that parliament will select the committee members responsibly," President Duda said.

Polish President Andrzej Duda speaks in London, England on May 24. Photo: Reuters

The Polish government 's move has been criticized by the opposition and many legal experts as a "constitutional coup." The opposition argues that the committee will undermine the principle of separation of powers between the executive and judicial branches.

They warned the committee could also be used to eliminate rivals of the ruling Law and Justice Party (PiS), specifically former Prime Minister Donald Tusk, ahead of possible elections in Poland in October or November.

Mr. Tusk is the leader of the Civic Platform (PO) party, which ruled Poland from 2007 to 2015. Mr. Duda accused the PO of making Poland overly dependent on Russian fuel by approving several projects to purchase natural gas from Moscow, but the party denied the accusation.

The Polish Judges' Association Iustitia said the bill violates European Union values ​​and could lead the bloc to impose sanctions on Warsaw for undermining democracy. US Ambassador to Poland Mark Brzezenski also expressed concern that the bill would hinder voters from casting ballots for their preferred candidate.

Recent polls show that PiS still enjoys the most support among political parties in Poland, with over 30%. However, they may not have enough seats to secure a majority in parliament.

Former Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk at parliament on May 26. Photo: AFP

By Như Tâm (According to AFP, Reuters )

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