PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński criticized former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki’s new association, “Rozwój Plus,” warning it could lead to a party split and barring members from future election lists.
Kaczyński’s Concerns Over “Rozwój Plus”
Jarosław Kaczyński stated that the statute of the Law and Justice (PiS) party prohibits activity in other political organizations, and the “Rozwój Plus” association has such a character. He expressed concern that the new group could create a “parasitic” entity aiming to form a new party within the existing PiS structure.
Kaczyński emphasized that a new party cannot grow out of an existing one, and individuals involved with “Rozwój Plus” will not be included on PiS electoral lists.
Morawiecki’s Position and Potential Consequences
Despite the concerns, Kaczyński acknowledged Mateusz Morawiecki’s past contributions as a successful Prime Minister, his current role as a party Vice-President, and his position as head of the European Conservatives and Reformists (EKR) group in the European Parliament. However, he stressed the need to uphold the party’s statute.
Kaczyński fears a potential schism within PiS and is opposed to Morawiecki’s association, viewing it as a precursor to the formation of a competing party.
Statutory Implications and Ultimatum Denial
Kaczyński warned that if rhetoric suggesting a “new proposal” for a specific electorate continues, it will be considered a party initiative, triggering statutory consequences. He denied issuing a seven-day ultimatum for a decision.
Morawiecki as a Divisive Figure
Kaczyński noted that Morawiecki is a “red flag” for certain segments of the right-wing political spectrum.
Rejection of Joint Candidacy and Blame for Current Events
Kaczyński revealed he proposed a joint appearance with Morawiecki and candidate Prime Minister Czarnik, but Morawiecki declined. He believes this refusal indicates that the nomination of Professor Czarnik as a prime ministerial candidate is the root cause of recent events.
Kaczyński stated that Morawiecki, a politician of significant stature, should understand the need to win elections before discussing the premiership.
Kaczyński’s Stance on Cryptocurrency and Voting Results
Kaczyński reiterated his support for a complete ban on cryptocurrencies, describing them as a “major scam” or, at best, a “major abuse.”
The Sejm voted on reinstating the crypto-asset market law, with 243 votes in favor, 191 against, and three abstentions. However, the required 263 votes to override the presidential veto were not reached. Notably, 17 PiS MPs, including Kaczyński and Mariusz Błaszczak, did not participate in the vote.
Tusk’s Criticism of Kaczyński and Błaszczak
Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized Kaczyński and Błaszczak for allegedly being “frightened by the truth” regarding a crypto-related scandal within PiS and for not voting to uphold the presidential veto, leaving their party “exposed.”
PiS Spokesman Defends Association, Müller Disagrees
PiS spokesman Rafał Bochenek stated that party members have expressed concern over Morawiecki’s actions, deeming the new association contrary to the party’s statute and subject to disciplinary consequences.
Europoseł Piotr Müller, a member of “Rozwój Plus,” countered that the association’s activities support increasing PiS’s support and align with its statutory goals. He claimed that during a recent meeting with Kaczyński, no objections were raised regarding the association.
Analysis of Power Dynamics Within PiS
Analysts suggest that Mateusz Morawiecki is strategically maneuvering against Jarosław Kaczyński, attracting MPs and positioning himself for a potential leadership challenge, focusing on appealing to centrist voters.
