In a statement, Nawrocki cited a 2012 Constitutional Tribunal ruling that he said confirms the president's authority both to appoint judges and to reject nominations.
"Today I am exercising that right," Nawrocki said. "I am refusing to nominate 46 judges. This is not just a verbal signal but a concrete decision not to grant these nominations. I will also deny promotions to judges who challenge Poland’s constitutional and legal order."
The president added that his decision would remain in effect throughout his five-year term.
Nawrocki accused some judges of "listening to the bad advice of Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek," who, he said, "encourages the judiciary to challenge our constitutional order."
He argued that public disputes over judges' legitimacy undermine the state and harm "ordinary citizens who cannot receive fair and lawful court rulings."
He cited several cases in which he said criminals avoided proper sentencing because "some judges questioned the legitimacy of others."
Nawrocki’s move marked the latest chapter in the long-running dispute between the government and the presidential palace over judicial appointments.
The standoff over the judiciary has been one of the key points of tension since Nawrocki took office in early August.
Earlier this month, the justice ministry unveiled a proposal to overhaul the National Council of the Judiciary (KRS), the body responsible for nominating judges.
(gs)
Source: IAR, PAP