Jerzy Owsiak, the head of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (WOŚP), has intensified his critical stance against Telewizja Republika. During a recent press conference summarizing the 33rd WOŚP Finale, Owsiak stated that his foundation would refuse to collaborate with companies advertising on the right-leaning broadcaster. His comments were laced with sharp criticism, which many have labeled as hateful.
According to Owsiak, Telewizja Republika refused to air a commercial from a company supporting WOŚP, citing that the content was “inconsistent with the station’s programming line.” In response, Owsiak declared:
“If any company wants to work with us and simultaneously advertise on that station, they need to make a choice. We will not cooperate with anyone who advertises on Telewizja Republika, a broadcaster that is, at times, anti-oncology, anti-hematology, and even anti-human.”
Owsiak further alleged that materials aired on Telewizja Republika had incited threats against him, including death threats. He claimed:
“Threats to shoot me in the head were inspired by this station.”
Notably, Owsiak did not address the controversial actions of certain WOŚP supporters, who staged a demonstration in front of Telewizja Republika’s headquarters during the charity’s final event, wearing its iconic heart-shaped emblems.
Owsiak’s statement also hinted at repercussions for companies that currently maintain successful collaborations with WOŚP, asserting that their support for the broadcaster’s platform is incompatible with the charity’s ethos.
Political and Social Ties
Jerzy Owsiak has been an outspoken figure in Polish social and political circles, often aligning with the Civic Platform party. In 2020, during the presidential campaign, he met with Rafał Trzaskowski, and more recently, he participated in rallies led by Donald Tusk’s party. Owsiak has also publicly endorsed political initiatives, including a campaign addressing sepsis, which critics argue indirectly targeted the ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) through suggestive messaging.
Telewizja Republika Responds
In response to Owsiak’s accusations, Telewizja Republika issued a statement refuting his claims. Key points include:
- No Refusal of WOŚP Advertising: The broadcaster denied refusing to air any advertisements featuring WOŚP logos, Jerzy Owsiak’s image, or related content.
- WOŚP Representation on Air: Telewizja Republika stated it has aired such advertisements and even hosted individuals associated with WOŚP on its programs.
- Denial of Owsiak’s Quoted Statement: The station clarified that it did not issue the statement Owsiak publicly attributed to them.
- Challenge to Publicize Evidence: Telewizja Republika urged Owsiak to release the advertisement he claimed the broadcaster refused to air.
- Demand for Public Apology: The broadcaster called on Owsiak to issue a statement retracting his allegations and apologizing for defaming Telewizja Republika. The demanded apology reads:
“I apologize to the viewers of Republika and the company Republika SA for spreading false information suggesting the station is ‘anti-oncology, anti-hematology, and anti-human.’ I also retract claims that Republika refused to air advertisements related to WOŚP. I regret casting the station and its advertisers in a negative light.” - Legal Action Warning: Telewizja Republika announced plans to pursue legal action if Owsiak does not comply, including a lawsuit for defamation and financial damages for reputational harm.