Anti-government protests set to take place this weekend

The Committee for the Defence of Democracy (KOD), a recently formed grassroots movement, seeks to speak out against PiS's new bill proposal on the Constitutional Court.

The just-proposed legislation is to be considered by the Law and Justice-dominated parliament on Thursday.

In line with the new bill, the Constitutional Tribunal would have to pass rulings with a two-thirds majority and with at least 13 out of 15 judges in attendance. Observers say the proposed legislation could make it more difficult for the tribunal to deliver rulings which hamper key reforms planned by Law and Justice.

Meanwhile, the ruling party itself says their ongoing efforts to change the tribunal are aimed at ending cronyism at the highest court.

In KOD's official online profile, the head of the movement, Mateusz Kijowski, sent out the invitation to the peaceful protest to all citizens who wish to voice their discontent with "the lawless, isolated Poland usurped by one party [which is] closed to social dialogue".

Formed in response to the ruling party's recent amendments to the law on the Constitutional Tribunal, the Committee for the Defense of Democracy galvanised thousands of people to take to streets last weekend.

Turnout estimates ranged from 17,000 to 50,000 in Warsaw alone.

The demonstrations came a day ahead of another, pro-government protest organised by Law and Justice, which brought together some 15,000 to 45,000 people. (aba/rg)

Source: Newsweek Polska