International Commission of Jurists criticises takeover of Polish constitutional court

The International Commission of Jurists criticized the takeover of Poland's Constitutional Tribunal by government-backed judges, stating it undermines judicial independence. The ICJ also condemned President Karol Nawrocki for not swearing in judges elected by parliament, which violates international standards. The tribunal's crisis escalated as eight judges announced the suspension of the chief justice and his deputy, leading to protests and police intervention. The ICJ urged Polish authorities to adhere to the rule of law and respect judicial independence. The situation has caused divisions within legal circles, including resignations from the Helsinki Foundation for Human Rights. Prime Minister Donald Tusk has called for dialogue to resolve the crisis.