Postal Elections Commission of Inquiry
A prominent figure in the Law and Justice party, Professor Przemysław Czarnek, recently spoke about the political challenges facing a parliamentary minority. He underscored that influencing policy from a minority position is inherently difficult, since implementing plans requires broad support. He asserted that his party intends to secure strong results in upcoming local government elections, aiming to hold existing majorities in poviat and voivodeship authorities and, through that influence, shape public discourse.
The year 2023 proved exceptionally dynamic for Polish politics, and with 2024 now underway, questions about goals, plans, and expectations naturally arise. A media outlet, wPolityce.pl, posed these questions to PiS MP Przemysław Czarnek to glean the party’s perspective on the near future.
According to Czarnek, the so‑called Postal Elections Commission of Inquiry could reveal that funds allocated to organize elections were not accompanied by actual balloting, arguing that delays were caused by opposition actions in the Senate, and by local officials and some virologists who supported them. He suggested that the inquiry would serve to demonstrate these points to the public and observers alike, particularly in the first half of 2024, when he anticipated the investigative committee would complete its work.
Beyond the immediate inquiry, Czarnek indicated that the campaign would involve scrutinizing those currently in power and exposing what he believes are ongoing misrepresentations. He referenced rising concerns about economic policy, arguing that increases in insurance premiums for entrepreneurs, the budget deficit, and reductions in military funding were part of a pattern of deceit that his party would highlight as the opposition’s ongoing strategy for at least the next year.
In discussing social policy, he noted a family budget example to illustrate shifts in social transfers since 2015, remarking that the gap between earlier and current benefits has widened substantially. He warned that the government might eventually limit social transfers, even as his party’s 800+ program has become a factual entitlement rather than a proposal, a development he credited to Law and Justice. This led him to express concern about potential future reductions and the broader implications for households at the lower end of the income spectrum.
Relating to the campaign’s wider goals, Czarnek emphasized the importance of unity and stability within his party and its broader network. He argued that unity around public media coverage and an ability to mobilize supporters would be crucial, especially if opponents falter. He asserted that his party would be ready should a change in government arise, a statement reflecting readiness for a potential transition if needed.
When pressed about whether Law and Justice had plans to win over specific voter groups that have drifted away, the MP reiterated the strategic reality of political life from a minority position: it is tough to persuade voters and implement long‑term plans. He reaffirmed the party’s intention to perform well in local elections and to sustain majorities in regional authorities, seeing this as a pathway to real influence over national policy and public opinion. The campaign was framed as a marathon beginning now, with next year’s presidential race also in view, though the local contests held primary importance at the time of the interview.
In summary, Czarnek portrayed the next steps as a blend of guarding incumbency in key local bodies, exposing perceived falsehoods in governance, and preparing for broader political shifts that could redefine Poland’s political landscape in the years ahead. The overarching message remained clear: maintain cohesion, press for accountability, and be ready to assume leadership should circumstances demand it.
[Attribution: wPolityce]