In recent months, Poland has been witnessing an intense power struggle between the newly elected President Karol Nawrocki and the Prime Minister Donald Tusk . In a recent interview with TVP, Nawrocki declared his intention to strongly oppose Tusk’s pro-European agenda, stating, “Prime Minister Tusk should be prepared for robust resistance from the Presidential Palace.” His comments signal a contentious political landscape ahead.
Nawrocki, a historian with a controversial political background, criticized Tusk, calling him the ” worst Prime Minister Poland has had since 1989.” This statement underscores Nawrocki’s ambition for governmental change, a promise he made during his campaign. He suggested, “If the coalition wishes to continue, it might be best for them to replace the Prime Minister.” This stark rhetoric highlights the ongoing friction within Polish politics.
Amid these tensions, Tusk plans to present a vote of confidence in parliament on June 11, aiming to fortify his coalition. Tusk’s recent electoral defeat against Nawrocki’s political ally, Rafał Trzaskowski , has significantly weakened his position. The call for Tusk’s resignation has even come from Jarosław Kaczyński , leader of the ruling PiS party, who suggests replacing him with a technical government led by a non-partisan Prime Minister until the next parliamentary elections.
Former EU Council President Donald Tusk has led a broad government coalition since late 2023, composed of the liberal-conservative Civic Platform , the Christian-social Third Way , and the progressive left coalition Lewica . Together, they aim to reverse the rule-of-law setbacks imposed by the PiS government from 2015 to 2023. Thus far, attempts to implement necessary reforms have been thwarted by vetoes from the current President Andrzej Duda and internal conflicts within the heterogeneous coalition.
Nawrocki’s political ascent is largely attributed to the backing of Kaczyński. Previously a non-partisan historian, he served as the head of the Institute of National Remembrance, which evolved into a politically charged instrument in recent years. Observers predict that Nawrocki will be even more decisive in his opposition to Tusk than his predecessor. Currently, Tusk’s coalition lacks the requisite 60 percent majority in parliament needed to override presidential vetoes.
Proximity to Donald Trump
Nawrocki’s campaign resonated with nationalistic rhetoric , skepticism towards the European Union, and right-wing populist to extremist positions. Notably, he has publicly opposed NATO membership for Ukraine and invoked rising anti-Ukrainian sentiments in Poland. On social issues, he stands firmly against the legalization of abortion and the legal recognition of same-sex partnerships , while emphasizing his closeness to US President Donald Trump .
His biography has stirred significant controversy even before the elections. Media reports have highlighted his past associations with neo-Nazi groups and his involvement in the hooligan scene , where he claims to have participated in organized street fights. Nawrocki also worked as a doorman in a hotel in Sopot, where he was accused of facilitating the services of prostitutes to guests during the campaign, an allegation he vehemently denies and plans to contest legally.
Moreover, recent investigations by the daily newspaper Gazeta Wyborcza suggest that he acquired a pensioner’s apartment far below its market value, raising further ethical concerns about his integrity.
The evolving political dynamics in Poland, particularly with Nawrocki assuming the presidency, could reshape not only Polish politics but also the broader landscape in Central and Eastern Europe. The repercussions of these developments on the European Union and NATO will be closely monitored as tensions mount between pro-European and nationalist factions in Poland.