Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz criticized Climate and Environment Deputy Minister Mikołaj Dorożała, fueling tensions within Poland’s governing coalition.
Kosiniak-Kamysz Calls for Dorożała’s Resignation
Deputy Prime Minister and PSL leader Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz stated that Paulina Hennig-Kloska is a good Minister of Climate and Environment, but his party has questions for her. He added that it is Deputy Minister Mikołaj Dorożała who should resign, claiming he “has done many foolish things.”
Kosiniak-Kamysz, speaking on Radio ZET, emphasized his personal concerns regarding forestry, foresters, and related issues. He believes Dorożała has long deserved dismissal for his actions.
PSL’s Position on Hennig-Kloska and Dorożała
Kosiniak-Kamysz clarified that Dorożała’s departure is not a condition for PSL’s support of Minister Hennig-Kloska. He reiterated that his opinion has been known for some time, and the PSL has consistently expressed it.
He explained that foresters, previously disappointed by Solidarna Polska, had hoped for greater support from the current government. He also stated that Dorożała “does not understand foresters or forestry.”
Sawicki’s Criticism and Coalition Unity
Regarding PSL MP Marek Sawicki’s assessment of Hennig-Kloska as the weakest link in the government, Kosiniak-Kamysz praised Sawicki’s freedom to express sometimes “exaggerated” opinions due to his lack of governmental responsibilities.
Kosiniak-Kamysz does not anticipate Sawicki’s views being isolated or leading to a vote to remove the minister, stating the PSL will vote cohesively. He stressed the importance of improving actions related to water security and rational environmental protection, free from “ecoterrorists.”
No Club Discipline for the Vote
Kosiniak-Kamysz assured that no club discipline will be imposed within the PSL regarding the vote.
Dorożała Responds to Criticism
Dorożała responded to Kosiniak-Kamysz’s comments via X, stating he intends to continue his work despite the criticism. He expressed support for his team and their dedication to Polish forests and nature.
He defended his team against being labeled as foolish and listed several initiatives they have already implemented, including the 2035 Strategy, the National Energy and Climate Plan, and the establishment of over 150 new nature reserves.
Dorożała affirmed that if prioritizing transparency, balance between industry and environmental protection, border security, and the preservation of valuable forests constitutes “foolishness,” he will continue to do so, and will defend his team’s hard work.
Vote of No Confidence Scheduled
A motion to dismiss Hennig-Kloska, signed by approximately 100 MPs from Konfederacja and PiS, was submitted to the Sejm in late March. The motion cites concerns about the minister’s handling of EU climate policies, the “Clean Air” program, and preparedness in the energy and wood sectors.
The Sejm is scheduled to address the motion between April 28-30. Prime Minister Donald Tusk has described the vote as a test of coalition loyalty and solidarity.
Hennig-Kloska attempted to meet with all coalition clubs, but Polska 2050 and PSL declined, citing prior invitations to meet with them and deeming the ministry an inappropriate venue for political discussions. The PSL has invited the minister to a club meeting on April 28.
