Poland Government Called To Account For Cash-for-visa Scandal

 

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The head of Poland's upper house of parliament, Tomasz Grodzki, has urged the government to disclose its knowledge regarding an ongoing scandal involving the exchange of cash for visas. Grodzki expressed concern that this issue is damaging Poland's reputation as a responsible democracy on the international stage.

While the government has shared limited details, media reports suggest that migrants paid up to $5,000 (£4,000) each to expedite their work visa applications. So far, seven individuals have been charged in connection with the scandal, although none of them are public officials.

In response to these allegations, the Deputy Foreign Minister, Piotr Wawrzyk, was dismissed, coinciding with a search of the foreign ministry conducted by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (CBA). Additionally, the director of the ministry's legal service has been fired. The ministry, now under audit due to the scandal, has announced its decision to terminate all contracts with outsourcing companies responsible for visa applications since 2011.

This scandal has the potential to tarnish the Law and Justice Party's anti-immigration stance in the upcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled for one month from now. While the party currently leads in the polls, it remains uncertain whether they can secure the outright majority needed for governance as they seek an unprecedented third term in office.