Poland faces a moment of reflection. The leadership stresses the need to preserve what has been achieved and to hold onto the strengths that have served the country well, while also listening to the rising ambitions of the Polish people. This was the stance shared by Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki in a conversation with the Salon24.pl portal when asked about whether the ruling party should pursue reforms.
During the Friday interview, Morawiecki was asked about comments from PiS President Jarosław Kaczyński in an interview with the Polish Press Agency, where the party leader indicated that his term as PiS president would conclude in 2024, prior to the next presidential election.
The plan ahead envisions a new party leader taking charge thereafter. As long as unforeseen events do not intervene, that process would unfold via the PiS congress, which would decide who assumes the presidency of the party. The expectation is that the successor will not be someone with only a brief tenure in the party, but rather a figure a generation younger than Kaczyński, tested by trials yet ready to steer the movement through future challenges. Morawiecki acknowledged that such capable individuals exist within the party.
When asked if he believes he fits the profile of the next PiS president, Morawiecki responded that he hopes President Kaczyński will consider who could be his deputy a decade from now. He added that his own experience navigating difficult, testing times—both within the party and in broader politics—has shaped his readiness to act decisively if needed. Morawiecki expressed gratitude for the unity of the political camp he represents, noting that the cohesion strengthens the entire movement.
On reform, Morawiecki warned against a colossal misstep if the party fails to heed lessons from the October 15 elections. The government believes change is necessary to stay aligned with the public’s expectations, while safeguarding the positive achievements already realized. He emphasized that the party is actively exploring new proposals ahead of local elections, aiming to respond comprehensively to evolving public aspirations.
The prime minister also spoke about a draft law related to asset disclosures. Lawmakers proposed amendments to require disclosure of the separate assets of spouses of individuals holding public functions. Morawiecki indicated support for transparency and suggested that the law should also address assets earned abroad in recent years, arguing that this would increase accountability for those who conducted financial activity outside the country.
Morawiecki underscored that his own financial declarations reveal substantial assets accumulated over many years. He stressed that his wife is an independent individual, and while she may have her own finances, she would not face hardship or hidden obligations, given her autonomy.
Regarding the duration of the current opposition’s influence, Morawiecki offered a pragmatic timetable. He anticipated possible turnover at the next local government and European Parliament elections, with the presidential race potentially triggering more rapid shifts. He warned of contradictions within opposition programs that could cause friction and complicate governance, suggesting that citizens will hold the opponents accountable for their proposals.
Morawiecki characterized the opposition as largely a “total opposition” that fails to recognize the government’s positive work and attempts to undermine it through various means, including street actions and foreign influence. He expressed hope that, should the opposition form a democratic coalition, it would truly operate in a democratic fashion rather than pursue destructive tactics.
The discussion touched on ongoing political dynamics and the broader implications for Poland’s path forward. The focus remained on balancing accountability with continuity, ensuring that reforms strengthen the country while preserving what has already benefited citizens. The tone conveyed a plan to engage with political partners and the public in a constructive, transparent manner as Poland looks ahead to local, national, and European political milestones.
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Source: wPolityce