Minister Telus outlines strategic talks to preserve government mandate
The struggle to maintain power and hold a parliamentary majority continues to dominate discussions, according to Robert Telus, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. In a Wednesday interview with Super Express, Telus emphasized that conversations with groups sharing a national program are part of his strategy as the political landscape evolves.
Asked whether resignation to opposition was looming or if efforts would focus on retaining authority, Telus replied that the priority is clear: the aim is to safeguard power and the parliamentary majority.
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Outlining coalition talks
Telus stated that dialogue would be opened with anyone sharing a similar national program, signaling a willingness to explore alliances. When questioned about involvement with PSL and Konfederacja, he noted that engagement requires dialogue and openness, suggesting that two parties may be needed to make progress.
Reports from SE indicate Telus regrets that Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz did not want to form a coalition with the current government, though Telus remains focused on seeking practical solutions. PSL’s behavior in recent European elections is cited as a cautionary example, with farmers and rural communities reacting negatively to the party. A rainbow clover symbol in the countryside became a point of contention, and farmers warned that PSL could betray rural ideals. Telus hopes the party avoids repeating this misstep.
Telus also commented on factors influencing PiS’s electoral defeat, attributing some impact to visa-related issues. He argued that responsibility lay not with the minister or the department, but recognized the damage caused during the campaign is a concern that must be addressed.
The abortion issue
Regarding abortion and the Constitutional Tribunal’s ruling, Telus conceded that the decision could influence younger voters. He stressed that some principles cannot be abandoned, including positions on abortion. He further commented that many young people may not grasp the broader consequences of current events, and he criticized boycotts of referenda addressing immigration, arguing that a large portion of the population does not want illegal migrants in the country.
Telus spoke to SE with the perspective that if the opposition gains a Sejm majority, it is unlikely to govern for an extended period. He pointed to the presence of numerous parties with diverse ideas, programs, and interests. He noted that despite a common goal of removing PiS from power, a broad anti-PiS coalition could become unstable, potentially dissolving by mid-next year around local elections.
In closing remarks, Telus underscored the need to search for workable solutions and to keep channels of dialogue open, even amid a fragmented parliamentary landscape.