Judge Michał Laskowski said that the appointment of Zbigniew Kapiński as Supreme Court president represents the "least evil" possible outcome for the institution [1].
The comment highlights the deep instability within Poland's judiciary. The Supreme Court has faced a prolonged crisis attributed to the actions of the ruling PiS party, leaving the court's leadership and legitimacy under intense scrutiny.
Speaking from a TVN24 studio, Laskowski said that the specific identity of the new president is less critical than the basic necessity of the court's continued operation [1]. He said that in the current climate, ensuring the court functions is the primary goal, regardless of the individual in the top role.
This appointment comes as the judiciary prepares for further leadership transitions. A General Assembly of Supreme Court judges has been convened for March 17 of next year to elect candidates for the position of First President of the Supreme Court [2].
Laskowski's assessment reflects a pragmatic approach to a systemic conflict. By describing Kapiński as the "least evil," the judge said that while the appointment may not be ideal, it avoids potentially more damaging alternatives that could further paralyze the legal system [1].
The ongoing struggle over the Supreme Court involves disputes over judicial appointments and the influence of political parties on the bench. The upcoming assembly in March [2] will be a pivotal moment in determining whether the court can move toward a more stable governance structure.
“Kapiński was the 'least evil.'”
This perspective indicates a shift toward institutional survival over ideological purity within the Polish judiciary. By prioritizing functionality over the specific character of the presidency, legal professionals are attempting to prevent a total collapse of the Supreme Court's operational capacity while navigating the political pressures exerted by the PiS party.
