In remarks during a meeting with residents of Pułtusk, Beata Szydło emphasized that the upcoming October elections would carry significant weight for Poland. She framed these polls as a moment to consider not only immediate outcomes but the long-term direction of the country and the well-being of its people. She noted that the broader international climate, including the war near Poland’s eastern border, underscored a world in flux where threats and opportunities coexist, and where a steady, security-minded approach is needed for the future.
According to the former prime minister, a responsible government must prioritize homeland security so that every Polish citizen can feel safe, regardless of evolving global tensions. She highlighted how peace and stability are not static, and governance should respond to changing circumstances with vigilance and prudence.
The response to critics
Szydło also addressed statements by Civic Platform politicians. She recalled discussions from years past about unemployment, emigration, and the challenges faced by families and seniors. She reminded listeners of the concerns voiced in Polish cities at a time when many young people left for other countries in search of opportunity, and when access to affordable medicines and adequate pensions remained a pressing worry. She argued that those experiences shaped a different national narrative eight years later, one in which small towns and major cities alike sought opportunities and improved living standards under a broad, inclusive philosophy.
From her vantage point, the eight-year period marked notable changes in Poland, with improvements in life for many families and a shift away from a focus on large urban centers alone. She asserted that everyone should receive a fair chance to benefit from national progress, not just those in big metropolitan areas.
A call for trust
Szydło described how the PiS program grew out of conversations with Poles. She stated that the program reflected citizens’ hopes, expectations, and suggestions, and that the party engaged with people across the country to shape policy priorities. The message was clear: trust was given to the leadership to deliver on commitments and to represent Polish interests on the national and European stages.
She urged voters to place their confidence once again in those elected to lead, while acknowledging that governance can involve missteps and the need for timely corrections. The emphasis was on accountability, openness to change, and the search for alternative solutions when plans do not unfold as intended. This stance, she argued, defined the character of the political coalition in question.
She reiterated that the people are the ultimate decision-makers, having entrusted leaders with responsibility and oversight. The idea was to keep the focus on serving citizens and defending national interests, both at home and abroad.
Strengthening state security
Another core point was the importance of state security in an uncertain global landscape. Szydło stressed that a government must prioritize the safety of Polish citizens and address security challenges that affect Europe and the wider region. The aim was to ensure a sense of safety and resilience across the country during difficult times.
Patriots and critics
In discussing patriotism, Szydło warned against reducing national loyalty to symbolic gestures. She argued that true patriotism is demonstrated through sustained actions and responsibility, not simply through appearances. She recalled moments when national leadership faced intense scrutiny and insisted that defending Poland’s democratic choices and interests requires steady, principled governance, even in the face of opposition or international pressure.
Democracy, she noted, involves differing viewpoints. Poles have the right to support leaders they believe best represent their interests, and even those who disagree with current rulers share a duty to defend Poland’s national interests, especially on the international stage.
She affirmed that the heart shown for Poland was genuine and that leaders are united by a shared commitment to the country and its people. The message was one of solidarity and perseverance, not empty symbolism.
On opposition rallies, she observed that discussions often centered on criticizing the government. She maintained that the elected administration serves the Polish people and is accountable to them, underscoring the legitimacy of the government’s mandate while inviting constructive dialogue.
The referendum topic
Turning to referendum questions, Szydło addressed pensions and other policy issues. She suggested that concerns voiced by opponents reflected a fear of changes to retirement policy and broader reforms. She posed a question about pension reform as a gauge of public sentiment and a prompt for debate on the future of social guarantees.
The discussion then shifted to border security and immigration. She highlighted the wartime period showing Polish generosity and solidarity, while warning that irresponsible governance could endanger Polish citizens. The aim was to ensure that policy choices at the border reflect prudence and the protection of those living in Poland.
She also touched on the topic of illegal immigration, recalling past government positions and criticising what she described as inconsistent European branding. While acknowledging humanitarian aid, she argued for measured approaches that emphasize national security and practical responses on the ground. She called for a referendum to reflect public opinion on these sensitive questions.
Her stance suggested that public opinion should guide decisions on core issues affecting citizens, especially when arguments about democratic legitimacy arise. The emphasis was on inclusivity and listening to the voice of the people as a central element of policy making.
On national resources and European funds
During the gathering, the discussion also touched on resources from the National Reconstruction Plan. Szydło asserted that Poland would receive its fair share of funds, aligning national expectations with European support. She humorously referenced political dynamics by noting that involvement at the European level would not be the sole route to obtaining these resources.
Commenting on leadership and political continuity, she referenced broader European discussions and suggested that Polish priorities would be safeguarded while remaining engaged with European partners. The overarching message was one of confidence in national resilience and the ability to secure needed investments for the country.
In closing, she affirmed a message of steadfast support for Poland and its people, rejecting symbolic gestures that lack substance. The core sentiment was solidarity with citizens and a commitment to stand with them as Poland charts its future.
(Citation: wPolityce)