Minister Marcin Kierwiński has expressed significant reservations regarding this Sunday’s referendum in Krakow, questioning the political motives behind the coalition of diverse organizations behind the recall initiative against Mayor Aleksander Miszalski.
Kierwiński Criticizes Political Coalition
On Thursday, May 21, Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński stated during a TOK FM broadcast that he is worried about the upcoming referendum. He noted that while political dimensions are expected, the movement is driven by a coalition of varied organizations, including the Confederation and PiS.
Kierwiński argued that such actions are never spontaneous and often serve hidden political agendas. He specifically criticized local activists who have repeatedly run for the mayoralty, suggesting that despite heavy campaign spending, they have never secured an electoral victory.
Despite his concerns, the minister stated that he hopes Mayor Miszalski will successfully defend his position during the upcoming vote, characterizing the situation as unpredictable.
Referendum Organizers Address City Staff
In an appeal to Krakow’s municipal employees, referendum organizers emphasized that the vote is not aimed at honest or competent staff. Instead, they described the initiative as a potential opportunity to restore normal working conditions within the local administration.
Jan Hoffman, chairman of the Stare Miasto district council, presented the statement on behalf of the organizers. He stressed that the goal is to stop the current chaotic management and end political hiring practices, asserting that the city requires professional expertise rather than further politicization.
Reasons Behind the Recall Effort
The referendum scheduled for Sunday, May 24, concerns the recall of Mayor Aleksander Miszalski and the City Council, currently dominated by the Civic Coalition (KO) and the New Left. Opponents cite concerns over city debt, nepotism, unfulfilled campaign promises, and the implementation of the Clean Transport Zone.
Mayor Miszalski has dismissed the attempt as a “rematch” of the previous local elections. He has acknowledged that some administrative decisions were erroneous and has promised corrections, including adjustments to parking fees and internal personnel changes.