Top Polish judge attacks ‘purge’ of judiciary

THE head of Poland’s Supreme Court has condemned the enforced retirement of her and several other judges as a “purge” and a threat to the independence of the country’s judiciary.

Malgorzata Gersdorf faces the axe under a new law that forces compulsory retirement on all Supreme Court judges aged 65 and over. It has attracted criticism both from within Poland and outside, owing to fears the government is attempting to bring the judicial system under political control.

The forced retirement, which comes into effect today, could push Poland beyond the point of no return in a longstanding conflict with the EU over the controversial law.

“Tomorrow there will be a purge of the Supreme Court conducted under the guise of retirement reform,” Ms Gersdorf said yesterday.

“Lawyers cannot be silent in the face of the evils inflicted upon the Polish judicial system,” she added. “The foundations of each state are its justice and laws. Those who oppose the constitution are against these goals and values.”