In a significant development in Poland's ongoing efforts to address alleged misconduct by its previous administration, prosecutors have brought corruption charges against Ryszard Czarnecki, a former member of the European Parliament, and his spouse. The case is connected to irregularities at Collegium Humanum, a private university in Warsaw.
Prosecutor Tomasz Tadla from Katowice, a major industrial city in southern Poland, announced on 2024-09-12 that Czarnecki and his wife, identified as Emilia H., are accused of obtaining approximately 92,000 zlotys ($23,000) from the university. The funds were allegedly provided in exchange for promises to assist the institution in expanding its operations abroad, particularly in Uzbekistan, leveraging Czarnecki's political connections.
The charges allege that the couple disguised the money transfers as compensation for Emilia H.'s purported work at the university, which prosecutors claim was fictitious. Both Czarnecki and his wife have denied any wrongdoing and were released on bail following their detention on 2024-09-11.
This case is part of a broader investigation into Collegium Humanum, which has been accused of issuing fraudulent MBA diplomas in exchange for bribes totaling around 630,000 zlotys ($162,000). The probe has identified nearly 50 suspects, with some, including the university's rector, already facing charges.
Czarnecki, a prominent figure in the Law and Justice party that governed Poland from 2015 to 2023, served as a European lawmaker from 2004 to 2019. His tenure coincided with Poland's accession to the European Union in 2004, marking a significant period in the country's modern history. However, his career has been marred by controversy, including losing his position as deputy speaker of the European Parliament in 2018 due to allegations of travel expense fraud.
The current Polish government, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who previously held the position from 2007 to 2014, has initiated multiple parliamentary investigations and probes into the alleged abuses of power, misuse of public funds, and corruption by the previous administration.
If convicted, Czarnecki and his wife could face up to a decade in prison. This case highlights the ongoing efforts to address corruption within Poland's political and educational institutions, as the country continues to strengthen its position as the 8th largest EU member state by area.
"The investigation has revealed a complex scheme of financial irregularities involving high-profile political figures and educational institutions. We are committed to uncovering the full extent of these alleged corrupt practices."
As Poland approaches its 20th anniversary of EU membership, this case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in maintaining transparency and accountability in public life, even as the country continues to play a significant role in European politics with its 52 seats in the 705-member European Parliament.