Poland to open secret files after polls

Poland will not publish its communist-era files on public officials until after the October 21 parliamentary elections, officials said last week. The decision was made due to fears that the files could be abused during the election campaign.

The Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) was due to start opening the files this month, making available the names of public figures who collaborated with the secret police before the collapse of communism in 1989. Several attempts have been made to open the archives, but none succeeded.

However, many had criticized the timing of opening the files, saying the information therein could be used by politicians to discredit rivals.

Janusz Kurtyka, head of IPN, said no documents on anyone who currently holds a public office will be opened before the election.

"I have heard many suggestions that the Institute has joined the election campaign," Kurtyka said. "To avoid such accusations, I have made a decision to delay the publication of the catalogue."

Kurtyka is considered close to the Kaczyński twins, Prime Minister Jarosław and President Lech, who have long called for the opening of the IPN's files, saying it would help the country weed out communist collaborators.

The Kaczyńskis say agents of the former regime are still trying to control Polish politics and business through a secret network. Some politicians from their Law and Justice party have suggested several opposition members were among collaborators with the secret service. (Reuters)