A heated argument erupted in the Sejm, Poland's Parliament, on April 2, 2025, as Jarosław Kaczyński, the head of the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party, and Roman Giertych, a prominent opposition figure, clashed over allegations surrounding the death of Barbara Skrzypek. The session began with Kaczyński calling for an extraordinary meeting to discuss the implications of humanitarianism in a so-called fighting democracy. His remarks quickly escalated into a personal attack on Giertych, whom he labeled the "main sadist" in the context of Skrzypek's tragic death.
Skrzypek, a long-time aide to Kaczyński, passed away on March 15, 2025, just three days after her interrogation related to a high-profile investigation involving the Srebrna company. Kaczyński accused Giertych of being responsible for her death, stating, "We are dealing with the death of Barbara Skrzypek due to a disgraceful interrogation. Here we have the main sadist, Giertych," he declared from the parliamentary rostrum.
The atmosphere in the Sejm became increasingly tense as Kaczyński's comments were met with loud boos from the ruling coalition's members. As Giertych took to the podium to respond, Kaczyński stood beside him, interrupting his speech. "Jarek, sit down, calm down," Giertych attempted to reason with Kaczyński, who retorted, "I am not on 'ty' with you, you rogue!" This exchange further inflamed the situation, with PiS MPs surrounding the rostrum, shouting accusations at Giertych, including calls of "Get off the rostrum, murderer!"
In the midst of this chaos, the presiding officer of the Sejm had to announce a break to restore order. The session, which commenced at 10 AM, was originally intended to address several legislative proposals, including those aimed at tightening the visa system and a controversial wind turbine law, as well as a deregulation package. A vote on a bill concerning health insurance contributions was also scheduled for Friday.
Earlier, Kaczyński had outlined the rationale behind his call for an extraordinary session, emphasizing the need to confront the moral questions surrounding democracy in Poland. He stated, "We must answer the question of whether a fighting democracy rejects all rules of European civilization or if something still remains." His remarks were framed against the backdrop of recent events, including the controversial release of Ryszard Cyba, a convicted murderer who had been sentenced to life imprisonment for killing a PiS aide in 2011. Cyba was released for health reasons and subsequently housed in a psychiatric facility.
As the debate unfolded, Giertych highlighted the absurdity of Kaczyński's accusations, noting that genealogists had established him as Kaczyński's distant uncle. "Call me uncle, Jarek," Giertych quipped, adding a layer of personal conflict to the political drama. This remark did little to quell the fervor of the PiS MPs, who continued to chant insults and accusations at Giertych.
Barbara Skrzypek's death has become a focal point of contention between the ruling party and the opposition. While PiS members have sought to portray her as a victim of the current regime, Giertych and other opposition leaders have accused the government of manipulating her death for political gain. Skrzypek's interrogation, which took place without her legal representative present, has raised questions about the conduct of the authorities involved. The prosecutor handling her case, Ewa Wrzosek, has faced threats and has since been given protection.
Following the uproar in the Sejm, Minister of Justice Adam Bodnar announced a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Skrzypek's death, including the decision to deny her legal counsel during the interrogation. He stated that it is crucial to analyze all aspects of the case to ensure accountability.
The political fallout from this incident is likely to reverberate throughout Poland's political landscape. The opposition has seized upon the events in the Sejm to galvanize support against the ruling party, framing Kaczyński's aggressive tactics as indicative of a broader pattern of authoritarianism. Giertych's response to Kaczyński's accusations will likely resonate with voters who are increasingly disillusioned with the current government's handling of justice and civil rights.
As the Sejm session continues, observers are keenly watching how these exchanges will influence public opinion and the political discourse leading up to future elections. With tensions running high and both sides entrenched in their positions, the debate over humanitarianism, justice, and accountability in Poland is far from over.
