The District Court in Warsaw has failed to provide timely justification for extending the detention of Father Michał Olszewski and two former Ministry of Justice officials, sparking concerns over judicial efficiency. Despite legal requirements to issue this reasoning within seven days, the defence has now been left waiting for over nine days. This delay violates Article 98 §2 of the Criminal Procedure Code and prevents the defence from appealing the court’s decision, raising serious questions about the integrity of the process.
Attorney Questions Delays in Olszewski Case, Suggests Political Interference Behind Court’s Inaction
Attorney Adam Gomoła, representing one of the detained officials, publicly expressed his frustration, noting that the case files have been in the court’s possession since at least mid-August. Meanwhile, the Court of Appeal previously demonstrated how efficiently this process can work, issuing its decision to shorten detention on the same day it was requested. Why, then, is the District Court dragging its feet? The contrasting approaches between these two courts suggest more than just bureaucratic incompetence; they hint at potential political interference.
Political Interference Suspected as New Charges Against Father Olszewski Raise Eyebrows
Father Olszewski, initially accused of mishandling Justice Fund grants, now faces the absurd charge of being involved in an “organized criminal group.” Even the prosecutor admits there is no new evidence to support this escalation. This reeks of a politically motivated attempt to prolong his detention without cause, reinforcing fears that the case is being manipulated for reasons beyond justice.
Judge Magdalena Wójcik, who recently extended Olszewski’s detention, was appointed to her new role in the 8th Criminal Division after a controversial reshuffle of court leadership orchestrated by the Ministry of Justice. This has only fueled concerns that judicial decisions in this case are being influenced by political forces, eager to make an example of those associated with the Justice Fund.
Read more: Unlawful Delays in Olszewski Case: Is Justice Being Manipulated?