Poland's PiS Penalized for Electoral Funding Misuse

Poland's Law and Justice Party (PiS) is set to lose millions in state funding following a decision by the electoral commission. The party has been accused of misusing public money during its 2023 campaign. This move strengthens the position of Prime Minister Donald Tusk's Civic Coalition as the dominant political force.

Poland's largest opposition party, the nationalist Law and Justice (PiS), is facing significant financial penalties after the electoral commission ruled that it misused public money for campaigning. The commission cited illegal expenditure of 3.6 million zlotys ($930,738) during the 2023 elections.

In a move that could reshape the political landscape, PiS will lose around 10 million zlotys ($2.59 million) annually until 2027. The decision has been condemned by PiS, which sees it as an attempt by the current government to hinder its chances in the upcoming 2025 presidential election.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk's pro-European Civic Coalition stands to gain from this development, potentially solidifying its position as Poland's dominant political force. The commission warned that PiS could face complete loss of annual funding if further misuse is discovered.

(With inputs from agencies.)