Former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki expressed confidence ahead of a meeting with Jarosław Kaczyński, despite potential repercussions for supporters of his new association.
Morawiecki’s Touting of “Poland of One Speed” in Toruń
During a Saturday meeting with residents of Toruń, Morawiecki did not address the “Development Plus” Association. Friday’s announcement by Kaczyński that individuals engaging with the initiative would be excluded from Law and Justice (PiS) lists led to the absence of five out of six PiS city councilors.
Some of those councilors had previously invited people to a meeting about the association, but distanced themselves from the event when questioned on Friday afternoon. Former ministers Michał Dworczyk, Waldemar Buda, Marcin Horała, and Janusz Cieszyński did attend.
“Restoring the Policy” of Equitable Development
Morawiecki presented the “Poland of One Speed” program, stating that PiS’s DNA is rooted in equitable development. He emphasized a model of “non-predatory capitalism,” combining economic liberalization with social solidarity.
He pledged to reinstate the program, previously known as the “Polish Deal,” if PiS returns to power, focusing on investments in local infrastructure like nurseries, preschools, and roads. He contrasted this with the current government’s focus on major metropolitan areas.
Kaczyński Bars Association Members from PiS Lists
Kaczyński has effectively barred members of Morawiecki’s “Development Plus” Association from appearing on PiS electoral lists. Questions arise whether Kaczyński will first strip the association of potential candidates before taking further action.
Morawiecki Anticipates “Good Things” from Kaczyński Meeting
Following the Toruń event, Morawiecki stated he expects “only good things” from his Monday meeting with Kaczyński. He characterized the “Development Plus” Association as an expert, programmatic, and local government-focused organization, aimed at attracting local government voters to PiS.
Morawiecki Dismisses Concerns About Exclusion from PiS Lists
Morawiecki dismissed concerns about being excluded from PiS lists, asserting the association’s activities are fully aligned with PiS’s statutes. He noted Kaczyński and others had previously encouraged the formation of associations.
He pointed to the “Sovereign Poland” group’s association as a precedent, questioning why other groups should be prohibited from forming their own. He also assured there would be no split within PiS.
PiS Spokesman Disputes Association’s Alignment with Party Statutes
PiS spokesman Rafał Bochenek stated that a recent meeting of the party’s Political Committee addressed Morawiecki’s association. While the conversation was described as “very calm,” Bochenek maintained that the association’s activities contradict PiS’s statutes.
Formation of “Development Plus” and Internal Party Discipline
Morawiecki confirmed in April the establishment of an association for individuals dissatisfied with parties on the right, including PiS, Confederation, and the Korona Polska party. A subsequent meeting between Kaczyński and Morawiecki aimed to “discipline” the former prime minister, whose actions were seen as diverging from the party line.
