Polish cardinal says country more important than 'party interests'

“The nation is tired of the endless conflicts and divisions,” the cardinal said at Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, where a passion play is staged each year during Holy Week.

“The good of our homeland is more important than the particular interests of parties,” he continued.

“And so from this place on Good Friday - from our Polish Calvary – I ask all those responsible: cease your polemics.”

Since the conservative Law and Justice government was sworn in in mid-November, Poles have been deeply divided over legislation voted through parliament that includes reforms to the judiciary, public media, civil service and surveillance laws among others.

The European Commission is examining whether the rule of law is under threat in Poland. (nh/pk)