Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk condemned a vote on President Karol Nawrocki’s CPK project, calling it a constitutional overreach.
Tusk Criticizes Presidential Overreach
Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated he does not accept the vote on the presidential project regarding the Central Communication Port (CPK), arguing it undermines the constitution. He claimed the president’s attempts to govern through legislative projects while vetoing government decisions violate Poland’s constitutional order. Tusk warned that such actions lead to political consequences, including contentious votes.
He emphasized the ongoing dispute over whether the president or the government should hold more power, stressing the need to adhere to the constitution. Tusk expressed concern that the president’s actions could lead to further erosion of democratic institutions.
Tusk Questions Poland 2050’s Stance
Tusk expressed disappointment that Marshal Szymon Hołownia and a significant group of Poland 2050 lawmakers sided with President Nawrocki on the CPK issue. He criticized the president’s supporters for wasting public funds on plans without delivering results, while his government had already made progress on high-speed rail projects.
Tusk lamented that Hołownia’s alignment with Nawrocki was a bad omen for Poland’s future, as it signaled a shift in political alliances that could undermine governance.
Poland 2050 Seeks Compromise
Deputy Barbara Oliwiecka of Poland 2050 acknowledged disagreements with the presidential bill but supported its broader message that CPK is a critical national project. She argued that the initiative should transcend political divisions and not be used as a bargaining chip in partisan disputes.
Oliwiecka stated her party would vote to send the bill to committee for further discussion, hoping for constructive dialogue. She emphasized the need for the president’s representatives to engage in meaningful negotiations to address concerns and ensure the project’s success.
Sejm Votes to Advance Presidential Bill
The Sejm voted on Friday to reject the presidential bill on CPK, with 203 votes in favor and 211 against. The bill will now proceed to further work in the parliamentary infrastructure committee. The vote reflected divisions, with PiS, some Poland 2050 members, and smaller factions supporting the president’s initiative.
The bill aims to compel the current government to complete CPK’s construction by the end of 2031, aligning with the previous United Right administration’s plans. It follows a civic initiative that sought to bind the Tusk government to the original CPK design.
