In Warsaw, PiS MPs elected former PZPR member Czarzasty Speaker, provoking criticism from office secretary Cenckiewicz who denounced the choice as anti‑communist cruelty.
Czarzasty Elected Amid Controversy
On Tuesday, members of the Polish Sejm elected Włodzimierz Czarzasty, a former PZPR official, as Speaker. The vote counted 236 in favor, 209 against, with two abstentions.
PiS MPs Sound Off Opposition
All PiS and allied MPs opposed Czarzasty’s election; during the session right‑wing members shouted “precz zkomuną!”—a play on the word for communist—before exiting the chamber.
Cenckiewicz Criticizes PiS Response
Office Secretary Sławomir Cenckiewicz said the decision shows “anti‑communism is orphaned,” recalling that in 2019 177 PiS MPs had no objection to Czarzasty’s bid for vice‑Speaker. He called the current reaction a temporary, situational stance.
Historical Context and Future Implications
Czarzasty’s background includes involvement in the Rywina affair. Former Speaker Szymon Hołownia resigned to pursue a UN refugee commission role. The new Speaker’s appointment carries significance for Poland’s political trajectory.