A push for cooperation with Poland 2050 in local and European elections is on the table, with a view to presenting a single candidate in the 2025 presidential race. This would create a strong opening for a potential second round, according to statements by a PSL leader on TVN24.
The head of the People’s Party, who also serves as deputy prime minister and as the defense minister in the government proposed by Donald Tusk, was asked on TVN24 about the plans of PSL and Poland 2050—who participated together in the parliamentary elections and with the Third Way coalition—for the upcoming contests: local elections in 2024, European elections in 2024, and the 2025 presidential election.
Cooperation with Poland 2050
The PSL leader recalled that PSL and Polski 2050 signed a pledge last week to cooperate closely.
Joint meetings will occur at least quarterly, and both parties will align on the most important issues. Preparations for local elections are underway, with provincial structures tasked with dialogue and coordination.
He noted that, in the local elections, there is a clear need for cooperation between the two groups. This approach could prove advantageous in regions where the ruling party currently holds sway.
In the European arena, the parties belong to different parliamentary families—PSL is part of the EPP group, while Polska 2050 aligns with Renew—yet the discussion about deeper cooperation continues. He expressed support for advancing collaboration on European matters.
When asked whether this cooperation would stay within the Third Way or extend to a broader coalition, including KO, he indicated that broader, more far-reaching scenarios in the European elections could not be ruled out.
There was also mention of potentially changing the rules governing European elections altogether, with concerns raised about current arrangements and their alignment with reality.
He affirmed support for nominating a common candidate in the 2025 presidential elections, viewing it as a significant opportunity to reach the second round. He described the initiative as a joint PSL-Poland 2050 effort that is starting to take shape on the horizon.
The discussion also touched on the process of selecting Szymon Hołownia as Chairman of the Sejm and the party’s unified stance on the issue, which naturally feeds into campaign planning and the position of the presidency.
Questions about Donald Tusk’s political future also arose, including whether he would resign as prime minister before the end of his term to pursue a European role. It was stated that no such suggestion had been made in discussions, and the prime minister’s term remained intact at that time.
In terms of European policy, Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted the importance of strong European engagement to secure Poland’s interests, clarify the party’s stance within the KPO framework, and ensure funding flows to Poland. He pointed to Tusk’s expertise as a key advantage in navigating European politics during a delicate period of EU relations, while noting that he did not expect a move to Brussels soon.
Regarding the tenure of the current government, the hope was expressed that it would endure for its full term, with a commitment to doing everything possible to support that outcome.
READ ALSO: The end of political romance? Will PSL participate in local elections with the Hołownia party? A decision by year-end.
When queried about a joint PSL-Poland 2050 candidate, he clarified that such a candidate is in development and would come from that coalition—emerging as a recognizable option on the horizon.
The search for a leader and a common position on this issue would naturally shape campaign plans and the ultimate presidential bid.
Asked about Donald Tusk’s potential resignation from the prime ministership to take a role in European politics, Kosiniak-Kamysz reiterated that no such move had been proposed, and the current government would focus on its mandate. He described Tusk’s European experience as a valuable asset in restoring and advancing Poland’s standing within the EU, while expressing confidence that the prime minister would continue in his current duties for the time being.
On the 400-day horizon for a prime ministerial tenure announced by Tusk, he indicated that this period was seen as a window to address past policy gaps rather than a fixed deadline, underscoring a belief that the government should serve the full term.
READ ALSO: Behind the scenes of coalition talks led by Tusk; the left challenged Kosiniak-Kamysz’s plan; the PM aspiration and political maneuvering.
Mon/PAP/X
Source: wPolityce