In a heated press conference on May 6, 2025, members of the ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) defended their presidential candidate, Karol Nawrocki, amid allegations concerning the acquisition of a studio apartment in Gdańsk. The controversy erupted after reports surfaced suggesting that Nawrocki had taken over the apartment from an elderly man, Mr. Jerzy, in exchange for providing care. However, PiS politicians vehemently denied these claims, asserting that Nawrocki's relationship with Mr. Jerzy was one of assistance rather than obligation.
Przemysław Czarnek, a prominent PiS member, clarified that Mr. Jerzy has been under the care of the Municipal Social Assistance Center in Gdańsk since 2007 and that Nawrocki had been helping him since 2008. Czarnek stated, "Karol Nawrocki met Mr. Jerzy and regularly helped him in his very difficult life situation, loneliness, illness, and all weaknesses." This statement aimed to counter claims that Nawrocki's ownership of the apartment was linked to any caregiving agreement.
During the conference, Czarnek read from Mr. Jerzy's testament, dated October 20, 2011, which bequeaths his property to Nawrocki while disinheriting his wife and children due to a lack of contact for 37 years. Czarnek quoted the testament, saying, "I, the undersigned, bequeath my property to Karol Nawrocki. I disinherit my wife and children for lack of contact with the aforementioned for 37 years." This testament is central to the defense of Nawrocki, as it suggests that Mr. Jerzy intended to reward Nawrocki for his support.
According to Czarnek, Mr. Jerzy acquired the 28-square-meter studio apartment from the city of Gdańsk, benefiting from a discount of up to 10 percent, using funds that were lent to him by Nawrocki. Czarnek explained that in 2012, both Mr. Jerzy and the Nawrockis signed a notarial deed, committing to a sale agreement that stipulated the apartment would be sold to them for 120,000 PLN in 2017. "The final sales agreement was signed in 2017, and Mr. Jerzy received the funds in 2012," Czarnek added, emphasizing that all transactions were documented properly.
Despite these assertions, the opposition has raised concerns about the ethical implications of the arrangement. Reports from Onet revealed that Nawrocki owns two apartments, including the studio in question, contradicting his earlier claim during a debate that he owned only one. Nawrocki's spokeswoman, Emilia Wierzbicki, stated that the apartment is at the disposal of Mr. Jerzy, who has been receiving professional care services since 2018 and is currently residing in a social care home.
The controversy has escalated into a political battleground, with Czarnek accusing the opposition of conducting a smear campaign against Nawrocki. He claimed that the accusations were part of a broader strategy by the Civic Platform party to undermine Nawrocki's candidacy as they face declining support in the polls. Czarnek asserted, "The mainstream media and special services have been involved in heinous acts against Nawrocki." He further criticized the Civic Platform's tactics, suggesting they are resorting to desperate measures as their candidate, Rafał Trzaskowski, struggles to maintain voter support.
As the debate continues, Nawrocki's team has reiterated that he has never profited from the apartment and continues to cover its maintenance costs, treating it as an asset for Mr. Jerzy's benefit. Wierzbicki emphasized that Nawrocki has provided ongoing support to Mr. Jerzy, including paying bills and purchasing groceries, and has never lived in or rented out the apartment.
In response to the allegations, Nawrocki defended his actions, stating, "I have taken care of an elderly, sick man who was my neighbor for years. I supported him despite my own financial struggles. Ultimately, I became the legal owner of the apartment, which I do not have keys to because Mr. Jerzy resides there." He expressed frustration over the media's portrayal of the situation, which he believes misrepresents his intentions.
As the election approaches, the implications of this controversy could significantly impact Nawrocki's campaign. The PiS party remains steadfast in their defense, asserting that the allegations are unfounded and that Nawrocki's actions stem from a genuine desire to help a vulnerable individual.
The case illustrates the complexities of political narratives in Poland, where personal relationships and public service intertwine. With both sides entrenched in their positions, the outcome of this controversy remains to be seen, but it is certain to play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape leading up to the presidential election.
