Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk, leading a centrist coalition that won the 2023 legislative elections, has accused the former Law and Justice (PiS) party of misappropriating 100 billion Polish zlotys (approximately $25 billion) during its eight years in power.

A six-month investigation has uncovered widespread financial abuse, resulting in 62 indictments against members of the previous ruling elite.

Currently, 62 individuals are under investigation, with the public prosecutor's office receiving 149 complaints related to these financial abuses.

In response to these findings, the current ministers of interior, justice, and finance have agreed to collaborate on addressing financial crimes and recovering embezzled funds.

Tusk announced a government initiative aimed at recovering the misappropriated funds, following the revelations from the investigations.

He emphasized that this is the first time in Poland's history that former government officials are being held accountable so swiftly and effectively.

Tusk highlighted a deliberate strategy by PiS to exploit public funds for personal gain, benefiting politicians and their family-run foundations.

Allegations of nepotism and corruption surfaced during the PiS administration, including the misuse of public funds for party supporters and foundations.

The Law and Justice party has faced criticism from the European Union for undermining democratic standards during its tenure, with reports of nepotism and corruption.

In response to Tusk's accusations, former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has denied the claims, labeling them as lies aimed at damaging the reputation of the PiS party.

At a recent news conference in Warsaw, Tusk and the heads of the interior, justice, and finance ministries signed an agreement to coordinate efforts in recovering missing state property.