Warsaw, December 5, 2025 | Prime Headlines:
Poland is facing serious political tension after allegations surfaced that one of the country’s major conservative media figures is being monitored by state intelligence services.
According to Bartosz Kownacki, a member of Parliament from the conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party, the Polish security services are allegedly surveilling Tomasz Sakiewicz, editor-in-chief of the right-leaning TV Republika network. Kownacki claims the surveillance is being carried out under agencies reporting directly to Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
If accurate, the accusations raise major concerns about press freedom in a democracy, especially in a NATO and European Union member state.
Why This Matters
TV Republika is not a fringe outlet — it is widely watched among conservative audiences and is known for criticizing the current liberal government. Supporters say monitoring its chief editor would be an attempt to silence political opposition and restrict media independence.
Analysts warn that this could signal a dangerous shift, where journalism becomes a target of political power rather than a watchdog holding power accountable.
Government Response
So far, the Polish government has not confirmed or denied the allegations. There has been no official statement from Prime Minister Tusk’s office or the intelligence agencies involved.
The silence has fueled further speculation and concern, especially among critics who say media freedoms in Poland have already weakened during recent political battles.
Broader Impact
Human rights groups and journalists are calling for transparency, warning that surveillance of reporters — without clear legal justification — would put Poland in conflict with EU protections on democracy and free speech.
Observers note that democracy rarely collapses suddenly. Instead, it erodes slowly — through secret decisions, unchecked surveillance, and fear of dissent.
