The change of power in Poland's political landscape, after a record-breaking turnout in the October 15 elections, was a spectacle not to be missed – even in the bright lights of a Warsaw cinema. Former opposition leader and EU Council President Donald Tusk's election to the position of future head of government, by a substantial majority, saw longtime ally Lech Walesa, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and ex-Polish President, choking back tears as Tusk spoke of a brighter future ahead.
Mateusz Morawiecki's PiS government, despite seemingly not accepting defeat, was eventually ousted following a vote of no confidence after eight weeks of political play-acting that had strained Poland's democratic image. The dramatic theatre unfolded in the presence of an openly amused and snack-filled audience, who watched the proceedings live in two halls of the cinema.
Tusk, in a rhetorical flourish, declared that this day was a victory for all those who believed in a brighter future, after years of PiS misrule. His triumph was however short-lived, as the PiS explored every loophole to extend its rule, with the help of President Andrzej Duda. Paying no mind to the will of the people, the PiS tried to hold onto power by exploiting every deadline, in the process costing the taxpayer a substantial sum.
With a new parliament and a new government in sight, Tusk's coalition faces myriad challenges. Resolving the ongoing border blockade with Ukraine, rejuvenating diplomatic ties with Germany and Brussels, and catering to the high expectations of the Polish citizens are pressing issues.
However, dealing with cohabitation with Duda might be the most significant hurdle. Duda's nonchalant disregard of the constitutional requirement for the head of state to remain non-partisan could pose a significant challenge to Tusk's reform proposals.
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- Buoyed by an overwhelming majority in the parliamentary elections, the PiS government initially refused to acknowledge its defeat and continued to hold on to power temporarily.
- The new government, headed by Donald Tusk, was the result of a coalition of liberal-centrist and leftist parties, who faced numerous challenges in forming a government.
- The prolonged power struggle between the PiS and the opposing coalition had a detrimental impact on Poland's democratic image and undermined public trust.
- Lech Walesa, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, expressed his support for Tusk, highlighting the significance of democracy and the will of the people.
- The PiS sought to exploit every possible opportunity to retain power, with the help of President Andrzej Duta, through some dubious and costly maneuvers.
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The election of Donald Tusk and his left and liberal-centrist coalition marked the end of the eight-year rule of the PiS party. The result of the elections gave hope to many disillusioned Poles, seeking a change in direction. Here are some key details about the change of government:
- Election Outcomes:
- The PiS secured the largest share of votes with 35% and 194 seats in the Sejm, the Polish parliament. Nevertheless, the hastily formed coalition of the Civic Platform, New Left, and Third Way managed to secure a parliamentary majority in December 2023.
- Change of Government:
- Despite the PiS's loss, President Andrzej Duda delayed the formation of the new government for two months by initially inviting the PiS to form a government. After Morawiecki failed to secure a majority in the parliament, Tusk was elected as the new prime minister by a simple majority in the Sejm.
- Challenges Faced by the New Government.
- The new government faces a myriad of challenges, including addressing the Ukrainian border blockade, repairing relations with Berlin and Brussels, and living up to the expectations of Polish citizens. The government must also balance its actions in dealing with the non-partisan President Duda, who has cast aside constitutional requirements.
