On Wnet radio, Jan Krzysztof Ardanowski disclosed his stance on defending the agricultural minister in a parliamentary setting. A former Agriculture Minister himself and the Chairman of the Council for Agriculture and Rural Areas to the President of Poland, Ardanowski asserted his support for the minister while also noting concerns about how the ministry has been handling key issues. He highlighted that in a parliamentary democracy, ministers deserve defense even when deputies have critical opinions about their performance, referencing Kowalczyk’s appointment and urging farmers to place trust in him. He stressed that the government has not adequately addressed the central problem at hand.
Denial of confidence in the Minister of Agriculture
The PSL group informed the Sejm that a motion to dismiss Agriculture Minister Henryk Kowalczyk had been submitted, a move presented by a coalition of deputies. In this context, Ardanowski, the former minister, was questioned on Wnet about the ongoing developments. He reiterated his commitment to supporting the minister, underscoring that in a parliamentary majority system, dismissals are governed by complex political dynamics that extend beyond individual accusations.
Ardanowski affirmed his stance, noting that defending a minister is typical in parliamentary democracies, even when criticisms of performance circulate. He remarked that Kowalczyk’s leadership faced serious challenges that required more decisive government action, while arguing that the government had not solved the underlying problem.
The president’s adviser commented that PSL politicians occasionally face reputational risks, suggesting that Kosiniak-Kamysz’s approach could unintentionally bolster the minister, given the expectation that political protections will be exercised in such disputes.
Analysts observed that this situation embodies the mechanics of parliamentary majority democracy, where the question of removing a minister becomes a more intricate political matter than it might appear at first glance.
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— Farmers criticized Deputy Prime Minister Kowalczyk and demonstrations occurred at the company headquarters, drawing attention from PSL activists. Secretary of State Kowalski commented that the debate should continue.
— Deputy Prime Minister Kowalczyk announced a forthcoming round table on the grain market, stating the goal of strengthening exports as a priority.
— Reports emerged of a tense incident in Jasionka involving Deputy Prime Minister Kowalczyk, with the Agriculture Minister expressing irritation during the episode.
Fuel for the opposition
Ardanowski pointed out that the difficulties faced in rural areas, along with ongoing unrest, provide ammunition for political opponents during campaigning. He argued that such a climate creates daily opportunities to score points, while the ruling side often lacks a clear defense against criticisms.
The Chairman of the Council for Agriculture and Rural Areas to the President of Poland emphasized that this dynamic feeds opposition messaging during the election season, framing it as a practical advantage for political adversaries.
Put on the lists
The topic of electoral lists also featured in the discussion. Ardanowski stated unequivocally his intention to be listed by the ruling Law and Justice party. He noted his long association with PiS spanning nearly two decades and suggested that, if circumstances threaten his position within the party, he would consider running for the Senate from his own committee. Such a move, he argued, would signal to many rural voters that PiS remains aligned with the countryside. He added that at least some villagers still support the party, and that breaking ties with the countryside would be a misstep for PiS.
Ardanowski also commented on internal criticisms directed at Jarosław Kaczyński regarding the so-called five for animals proposals, noting that opposition to those plans would preclude his inclusion on the PiS list. He asserted that his long-standing affiliation and financial backing for the party would be questioned if he refrained from running.
He emphasized that politics can be unpredictable, but his two-decade relationship with the party, including his name and profile, supports the view that not running would weaken the party’s standing with rural voters.
Round table about Ukrainian grain
The round table on Ukrainian grain was another focal point of discussion. Ardanowski described the forum as overdue yet potentially productive, acknowledging its eventual importance. He cautioned that simply convening such a meeting after months of inaction would not automatically resolve the issue but accepted that a timely dialogue could yield constructive outcomes.
He suggested that a practical government proposal is now necessary, arguing that the agriculture minister cannot handle the matter alone. A precise assessment of grain in storage was deemed essential to avoid missteps, with a focus on maintaining a stable supply for the upcoming year and ensuring any grain destined for humanitarian aid or energy use is handled efficiently.
Ardanowski warned against a rush to deplete stocks, advocating careful planning of reserves. He questioned the viability of intervention buying at the EU level, noting that such a decision would require EU endorsement rather than unilateral moves, and described it as an unlikely solution. He proposed alternative uses for grain, including processing into bioethanol or spirits for fuel and directing some portions toward biogas production. In a normal year, grain might be considered waste, but this year called for strategic allocation to support energy and industrial applications.
He also pointed to opportunities for export expansion to Africa and observed that state-owned grain yards are largely absent in Poland, with existing facilities operated by independent Western traders. He described a diplomatic and economic opportunity by offering grain to Africa as humanitarian aid, potentially paving the way for Polish companies to engage more broadly in trade. Finally, he highlighted the potential for energy-focused utilization of grain through CHP plants that could recover heat from the grain supply.
These remarks reflect a broader view of policy levers, emphasizing careful stock management, targeted use of grain for energy and humanitarian goals, and expanded export opportunities as part of a comprehensive strategy for agriculture and rural regions.
Source: wPolityce