Hungary's Asylum Decision Provokes Tensions with Poland Over Former Minister

The political landscape between Poland and Hungary has shifted with Hungary's decision to grant asylum to Marcin Romanowski, a former Polish deputy justice minister accused of fraud. Poland's government views this move as a hostile act, intensifying existing tensions related to judicial reform and independence.

The political dynamics between Hungary and Poland have been further strained due to Hungary's decision to grant asylum to Marcin Romanowski, a former Polish deputy justice minister facing serious allegations. Romanowski, 48, is accused of defrauding Poland’s justice fund and is currently facing 11 criminal charges, including defrauding an alleged $40 million intended to assist victims of crime during his tenure from 2019 to 2023 under the Law and Justice party.

Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski expressed Poland's discontent on social media, labeling Hungary's actions as hostile towards Poland and against EU principles. In a retaliation measure, Poland plans to summon Hungary's ambassador and consider formal proceedings against Hungary through the European Commission if it fails to comply with EU obligations.

After disappearing for almost two weeks, Romanowski resurfaced in Hungary, seeking refuge and protection from what he claims are politicized legal proceedings back home. He argues that the current Poland government, led by pro-EU Prime Minister Donald Tusk, would not grant him a fair trial. Replacement government officials have criticized this claim, pointing out that the previous government’s judicial reforms were similarly denounced for politicizing the judiciary.

Since the election that resulted in the Law and Justice party losing power, the new government has sought to reverse some of the contentious judicial changes implemented by their predecessors. As part of this, they are addressing the two-tier judicial system that arose from the significant reforms and appointments contested by those who were previously in power.

Romanowski is reportedly associated with the conservative Catholic group Opus Dei, which is embroiled in controversy regarding its denial of harboring him. Tensions were exacerbated when Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban publicly criticized the Polish government for treating Hungary as an adversary. He reaffirmed Hungary's commitment to providing refuge to individuals alleged to face political persecution in Poland.

The relationship between Hungary and Poland has been complicated by differing views on EU governance and national sovereignty, fostering an environment ripe for conflict. This incident has not only highlighted national tensions but has also drawn deeper scrutiny from European institutions advocating for judicial integrity and political accountability across member states.