Aksander Kwaśniewski comments on Poland’s opposition strategy and Tusk’s role
Former Polish president Aleksander Kwaśniewski spoke in an interview with the Onet portal about the ongoing debate inside the opposition over running with a single list. He noted that Rafał Trzaskowski should play a louder role in the campaign, given Donald Tusk’s extensive political experience. Kwaśniewski warned that PiS’s possible third term would erase Tusk from the narrative of the Third Republic, creating high stakes for the opposition. He described the situation as a 50/50 contest between the opposition and PiS, adding that the internal disagreement is largely driven by Tusk’s leadership style.
Kwaśniewski characterized the debate about a single opposition list as presently counterproductive and even risky for the opposition. He urged the opposition to decide by early May which electoral format to pursue, to agree not to attack each other, and to signal willingness to form a joint government if they win. He stressed the need for a decisive choice and early unity, warning that continued tension around a single-list concept could lead to disappointment and divisions before the vote.
In another part of his remarks, Kwaśniewski reiterated that a PiS victory in a third term would largely erase Tusk’s status in the narrative of post-communist Poland. He argued that Trzaskowski should be more visible in the campaign, given Tusk’s seven years as prime minister and five years as president of the European Council, which contributes a substantial but heavy legacy. The former president suggested that Trzaskowski could present the party with fresh momentum while acknowledging its past, thereby connecting history with a forward-looking agenda. He likened the campaign as a runner carrying two heavy suitcases, noting that Trzaskowski, seen as a relatively newer figure, could help KO demonstrate continuity and a path to the future.
Kwaśniewski also pointed out that PiS involves several prominent figures in pre-campaign activity, such as Beata Szydło, and observed that Donald Tusk’s actions are the most visible element within KO’s campaign. He implied that PiS benefits from presenting multiple characters, and he advised the PO to avoid centering the narrative solely on Tusk, highlighting that a broader leadership team, led by Trzaskowski, could be advantageous. He cautioned that focusing exclusively on one figure might not be enough to sustain support over time.
Looking ahead, Kwaśniewski acknowledged that PiS still presents a credible chance of winning the next election. He warned that it would be unrealistic to claim PiS will definitely lose, while also cautioning against underestimating the governing party. According to him, PiS remains a strong political force, capable of securing victory under the right circumstances. The former president noted that Donald Tusk is unlikely to be pleased with the interview, but he also suggested that the single-list debate does not serve the opposition well and that a more visible, diversified leadership could help KO demonstrate both a track record and a future orientation. This assessment reflects Kwaśniewski’s view that the opposition needs a coherent, energetic strategy rather than relying on a single figure.
This summary reflects the discussion as reported by Onet and subsequent commentary from various political outlets. The overall takeaway is a call for clarity, unity, and a more expansive leadership approach within the opposition as Poland approaches the elections. For further context, sources include Polish media reports and political analyses from outlets such as wPolityce, with attribution to the respective outlets that circulated these remarks.