Speaking at the "Paths Out of the Constitutional Crisis" conference in Warsaw, Tusk emphasized the "complexity of Poland's current legal situation," blaming the past eight years of government by the right-wing Law and Justice (PiS) party for "devastating the system" to a point where it is sometimes difficult to find unequivocal interpretation of the law.
Tusk said that while Poland has many brilliant legal minds, the environment in which they now operate has significantly changed, state news agency PAP reported.
He argued that during his previous two terms as prime minister, from 2007 to 20014, adherence to the constitution came from a genuine belief in its principles.
He contrasted this with the current legal landscape, where he feels the lines between right and wrong have become blurred, making legal interpretations far more uncertain.
Tusk criticized the previous administration for implementing legal tools designed not to strengthen the constitutional order but to undermine it.
He expressed frustration that the current government lacks the necessary legal instruments to fix the damage done, calling this a personal "discomfort," including in the context of "signing and countersigning laws."
Addressing legal experts and constitutional scholars at the event, Tusk argued that, in the absence of proper legal mechanisms, the executive branch must find the strength and determination to take risks, even when these actions may be challenged.
'Nothing absolves us from the duty to act'
"We will probably make mistakes or take actions that, according to some legal authorities, will be either non-compliant or not fully compliant with the law, but nothing absolves us from the duty to act," he said.
"Every day, I have to make decisions that can be easily criticized and challenged from a legal perspective, but without these decisions, there would be no point in taking on the responsibility of running the government," he added.
He told the conference on Tuesday that while some decisions may not meet the criteria of full legality "from a purist point of view," he would continue to act in a way that prioritizes decency and integrity in politics.
Tusk announced earlier this week that he had revoked his signature on a document approving a controversial judicial appointment.
His unprecedented announcement has sparked both praise and criticism, with some constitutional experts voicing serious concerns, Polish state news agency PAP reported.
(rt/gs)
Source: IAR, PAP