Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk is gearing up for a confidence vote in his pro-EU government after his coalition experienced a narrow defeat in the recent presidential elections. The vote set for Wednesday is expected to be a straightforward process, as Tusk's coalition holds a 12-seat majority in the Sejm. To win the confidence vote, only a simple majority of half of the 460 members is required.
Addressing the parliament, Tusk emphasized the challenges ahead due to the election of Karol Nawrocki, the conservative candidate backed by the opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party. Nawrocki is expected to use his presidential veto power against legislation, reminiscent of the conservative Andrzej Duda's previous actions during Tusk's term.
Tusk, who is planning a cabinet reshuffle this July, asked parliament members to reaffirm their trust in his government's ability to govern effectively over the next two and a half years. He highlighted recent accomplishments, including increased defense spending and initiatives addressing migration challenges, while aiming to position Poland as a key player in Europe by securing a bilateral treaty with France.
Despite receiving a standing ovation from his supporters, Tusk's speech left out crucial issues, such as his promise to grant legal abortion rights for women—a plan likely to face opposition from conservatives. The outgoing president Duda's vetoes have also hampered Tusk's promises to reform judicial influences, a point of contention with the European Commission.
As tensions mount with the incoming conservative administration, Tusk’s challenges seem far from over.
