Capital Referendum Operation: Campaign to Oust Rafał Trzaskowski Launched

Activists have initiated the “Capital Referendum Operation” in Warsaw, aiming to collect over 132,000 signatures within 60 days to trigger a vote on removing Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski and the City Council.

The Push for a Recall Referendum

The initiative, known as the Capital Referendum Operation (SOR), seeks to hold a referendum regarding the dismissal of Rafał Trzaskowski and the Warsaw City Council. Organizers plan to begin gathering the required 132,290 signatures in the second half of July, with a strict 60-day window to reach their goal.

Political Context and Controversy

The campaign emerges at a challenging time for Trzaskowski, compounded by opposition allegations regarding city management, the fallout from his 2025 presidential election defeat, and ongoing controversies surrounding the Southern Hospital. During a recent City Council session, protesters demanded a referendum, while the mayor defended his administration and promised to hold those responsible for hospital issues accountable.

Legal Hurdles and Requirements

While legally possible, the process remains logistically demanding. Local referendum laws require support from at least 10 percent of eligible voters within a 60-day period. Furthermore, a successful recall requires a specific voter turnout, necessitating at least three-fifths of the participation recorded during the initial election of the official in question.

Differing Perspectives on the Campaign

The movement has polarized political observers. Supporters view it as a necessary reckoning for perceived mismanagement, cronyism, and political maneuvering within the capital. Conversely, critics argue the effort is a calculated attempt to exploit Trzaskowski’s post-campaign vulnerability and inject national political conflicts into local government. Despite the pressure, Trzaskowski maintains a stable majority in the City Council, as evidenced by recent votes on his confidence and budget discharge.