In a significant turn of events, Donald Tusk is set to become Poland’s prime minister after the current leader, Mateusz Morawiecki, lost a crucial vote in the country’s parliament. Morawiecki’s populist Law and Justice (PiS) party failed to secure a majority in the October elections, leading to the nomination of Tusk by President Andrzej Duda, a PiS ally. With 190 votes in favor of Morawiecki’s government compared to 266 against, Tusk’s path to PM has been cleared.
The October elections witnessed a coalition led by Tusk’s Civic Coalition (KO), the Third Way, and the Left securing a majority of seats in the parliament, with a record turnout exceeding 70%. While Morawiecki’s PiS emerged as the largest party, its inability to form a majority due to the refusal of other parties to collaborate caused delays in the formation of the new government.
Tusk, who previously served as both the prime minister of Poland (2007-2014) and the president of the European Council, will introduce his cabinet on Tuesday. Notably, Radoslaw Sikorski, a former foreign minister under Tusk, is expected to be nominated. The expectations for the new coalition are high, with Tusk promising a series of measures aimed at reversing the effects of PiS rule. The restoration of judicial independence, the release of €36bn of EU funds earmarked for Poland, the reversal of the abortion ban, and the strengthening of protections for the LGBT community are some of the key initiatives outlined by Tusk.
Implementing his agenda, however, may present challenges for Tusk. Duda’s decision to nominate Morawiecki with no expectation of winning a vote of confidence indicates the president’s intention to hinder Tusk’s plans. Furthermore, as bills approved by parliament require the president’s signature, Duda possesses the power to veto them. With Tusk’s coalition lacking the necessary MP count to override a presidential veto, the path to enacting significant reforms may face obstacles.
The return of Tusk to power carries considerable significance for Poland and its future direction. As a seasoned politician with experience at both the national and European levels, Tusk’s leadership is anticipated to bring about changes in various domains. However, the road ahead is likely to be met with resistance and intricate political dynamics that may influence the success of reform initiatives.
The news of Tusk’s impending appointment as prime minister is of utmost importance to the Polish people, the country’s political landscape, and its international relations. It signifies a shift in power, introduces a new coalition government, and holds the potential for policy reversals and progressive reforms. As Poland navigates through these transformations, it will be crucial for stakeholders to remain informed and engaged in the evolving political discourse.
