Prime Minister Donald Tusk of Poland has made a significant announcement, revealing that the previous government allegedly engaged in illegal spending amounting to 100 billion Polish zlotys ($25 billion). Tusk stated that after six months of investigations and audits, evidence of widespread financial abuse had been uncovered, leading to charges against 62 members of the former ruling elite.
Tusk, a centrist leader heading a coalition government that came to power last year, emphasized the commitment to upholding democratic standards. The current government took office in December following an eight-year rule by the Law and Justice party, which had faced criticism from the EU for undermining democratic principles.
During its tenure, the Law and Justice party was also accused of nepotism and corruption, with reports of state funds allegedly being directed towards party loyalists and foundations. Tusk highlighted the need for accountability and transparency in governance.
Speaking at a news conference in Warsaw, Tusk announced a government initiative to recover the missing state property. The interior, justice, and finance ministries have signed an agreement to collaborate on securing and reclaiming the misused funds.
Tusk described the ongoing actions as a historic moment for Poland, noting that former officials were being swiftly and effectively held accountable for their actions. In response, Tusk's predecessor, Mateusz Morawiecki, dismissed the accusations as falsehoods aimed at discrediting the Law and Justice party, which currently serves as the country's largest opposition.
