Tusk Defends Court Overhaul as EU Urges President to Recognise New Judges Amid Protests

Prime Minister Donald Tusk insisted that the overhaul of Poland’s constitutional court is "vital to restore a tribunal that has been crippled by years of political disputes," echoing his earlier statements about the need for a functional, independent judiciary.

At the same time, the European Commission sent a letter urging President Karol Nawrocki to recognise the judges appointed under the new plan, a move the Commission says is necessary before the upcoming parliamentary election.

The call for recognition has sparked a wave of street protests, with demonstrators gathering in the capital to voice their opposition to the overhaul and to demand a transparent, apolitical court.

Tusk defended his position, arguing that the reforms are required for the court to operate independently, while critics continue to question the timing and the political implications of the changes.