Poland’s parliamentary speaker has announced that the country’s presidential election will be held on May 18, with a potential runoff on June 1, The Associated Press reports.
The election is seen as a pivotal moment for Poland, as it will determine whether the pro-European Union government of Prime Minister Donald Tusk will gain an ally in the presidential palace amidst a challenging geopolitical landscape.
The current president, Andrzej Duda, a right-wing figure, is set to leave office in August at the end of his second term. Duda has been a frequent critic of the Tusk government, often blocking legislation and engaging in public spats. He recently caused controversy by skipping a gala marking Poland’s EU presidency launch to go skiing. He is ineligible for another term under Poland’s constitution.
Szymon Holownia, the speaker of the Sejm (lower house of parliament) and leader of the Poland 2050 party, has declared his candidacy for president. He announced the election date early to allow for ample time for campaigning, which can officially begin on January 15.
The election is particularly significant as the Polish president, while not the primary driver of policy, holds considerable influence, including veto power over legislation, and plays a role in foreign relations. The president is also the supreme commander of the armed forces, working in cooperation with the government.
The leading government party, the Civic Coalition, has nominated Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski as its presidential candidate. Prime Minister Tusk, former head of the European Union, has chosen to remain in his government post.
The right-wing opposition party, Law and Justice, is backing Karol Nawrocki, a historian and head of the national history institute IPN, as their candidate. Nawrocki has faced scrutiny due to allegations of ties to hard-right groups and individuals with criminal connections. He has denied these claims. Law and Justice, ousted from power in the 2023 general election, had a close alliance with President Duda.
Also in the running is far-right leader Slawomir Mentzen, representing the Konfederacja (Confederation) party.
This election is taking place at a time of heightened geopolitical tension for Poland and Europe, as well as a moment of political transition in Poland itself. The outcome of the election will determine the balance of power within the country and could have a significant impact on Poland’s future trajectory. The election comes at a time when over 50 countries around the world are scheduled to go to the polls, with Poland being a key election to watch.
