Polish county councilor Michał Tyrawski, a former New Left member, denounces the ruling PiS, attacks Ryszard Petru, and argues that the Left has abandoned social promises in the Człuchów region.
Early Disappointment with the New Government
Tyrawski said he ended his 18‑year career a week after the elections, saying democracy and rule of law were close to him. He was angry at PiS and expected the new government, led by Donald Tusk, to bring a different approach than the previous ruling coalition. However, he says the new administration quickly fell short of its pledges.
Unfulfilled Social Commitments
He notes that most of the promises made by the new government were unfulfilled after the first hundred days and even after a year. Nothing resolved partner‑union contracts or housing problems. Minimum wage only marginally increased, and the government blocked a “free Christmas holiday,” re‑introducing a neoliberal order that has already been criticised.
Party Exit and Planned Retirement
Tyrawski planned to stay with the New Left until the December internal election. When Agnieszka Dziemianowicz‑Bąk was announced as a candidate for party leader, he hoped for change but received indications that this would not happen. He quit the party because it was re‑nominated by former communist MPs and because it struggled to deliver social measures. He will not be a delegate at the national congress and therefore will have no influence on the December elections.
Local Region’s Socioeconomic Reality
The Człuchów region was the most afflicted by unemployment (over 40 %) during Balcerowicz’s reforms, and today the unemployment rate is about 10 %. Local services are in decline, the county remains poor, and public transport is limited. Tyrawski grew up in a working‑class family, familiar with poverty, and had high hopes for the New Left’s social agenda.
Left’s Shift from Social to Ideological Agenda
He claims the Left no longer puts “social” on its banner. The party aligns with a liberal bloc and thus can be seen as complacently defending non‑inequitable practices. Policies such as partner‑union reforms, minimum wage, and inheritance rights—already legally protected—still fail to address dignity and new rights, leaving the party “stuck” in an old formula.
Critique of Migration and Economic Narratives
Tyrawski criticises the Left’s simplistic stance on migration, arguing that the party neither explains nor addresses economic concerns. He cites earlier criticism of the F‑35 fighter‑jet purchase and argues that migrants, especially Ukrainians, should not be portrayed as a burden but as contributors to the economy. He calls for a more responsible, clear communication of economic policy.
