In response to allegations made by Paweł Wojtunik, the former head of the Central Anti-Corruption Bureau (CBA), a senior Polish security official has firmly denied that secret services conducted surveillance on the opposition prior to the general elections on October 15.
Wojtunik had asserted that he received information from multiple sources regarding a meeting held at the CBA training and conference centre in Lucień, central Poland. During this meeting, he claimed that discussions revolved around implementing operational control measures against members of opposition groups.
Specifically, Wojtunik raised questions to Mariusz Kamiński, the interior minister and coordinator of special services, regarding whether these “decisions, instructions, and recommendations” were aimed at the Third Way, a coalition of two opposition parties, the Polish People’s Party and Poland 2050, which were running jointly in the elections.
According to the reports cited by Wojtunik, the alleged wiretapping was said to occur over five days, which, according to existing law, could be carried out without the need for court oversight, provided the consent of the prosecutor general was obtained. This role was held by Zbigniew Ziobro, the justice minister in the incumbent Law and Justice (PiS) government.
Stanisław Żaryn, the deputy of the Minister Coordinator of Special Services, directly addressed these allegations, refuting them as baseless. Żaryn emphasized that the Secret Services strictly operate within the boundaries of the law and in adherence to established regulations.
“This is not true. The secret services operate within the limits of the law and based on the regulations,” Żaryn stated categorically.
Furthermore, Żaryn while talking to PAP (Polish Press Agency) accused Wojtunik of using his media appearances to spread false information and insinuations about the special services for several days. He argued that Wojtunik’s actions, supported by the media and certain politicians, were detrimental to Poland.
“Wojtunik himself admits that he discredits himself by publicizing the rumours… But his activities, supported by the media and some politicians, primarily harm Poland,” Żaryn contended.
Deputy Interior Minister Maciej Wąsik also weighed in on Wojtunik’s claims through social media, alleging that Wojtunik had been tasked with preparing the grounds for the dissolution of the CBA. Wąsik, in his statement, likened Wojtunik’s actions to those of the leader of the opposition, Donald Tusk.
In the October 15 elections, the incumbent ruling party, PiS, secured the most votes but did not attain a majority, leaving the opposition with a strong chance of forming the next Polish government.