Poland’s governing coalition in disarray as deputy PM sacked in row over media law
Sacking came ahead of key vote
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Poland’s fragile governing coalition has been thrown into chaos after prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki sacked his deputy amid a row over a new media law.
Mr Morawiecki, leader of the ruling right-wing Law and Justice Party (PiS), ousted Agreement Party leader Jaroslaw Gowin on Tuesday.
The move came prior to a key vote on a media bill. Mr Gowin said his dismissal signalled “the de facto end of United Right”.
His party voted on Wednesday to leave the coalition government, meaning PiS has lost its slim majority.
The bill would prevent non-European media owners from having controlling stakes.
Critics said it was an effort to silence a US-owned broadcaster that is also critical of the government.
Discovery Inc would be forced to sell its controlling stake in TVN, a network with many channels that operates all-news TVN24 with a flagship evening programme watched by millions.
The government said the legislation is needed to stop hostile powers from taking over Polish TV networks. A vote was expected on Wednesday.
Law and Justice appeared poised to pick up some votes from opposition lawmakers, including some from Confederation, a small party made up of libertarian and nationalist politicians. A spokesperson for the party said it still expects the law to be passed.
Additional reporting by Associated Press
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments