Kaczyński on PiS Split: “It Was About Smashing the Party”

PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński stated that over thirty lawmakers resigned from the party following an ultimatum regarding association memberships, denying any personal guilt in the ongoing split initiated by Mateusz Morawiecki.

Resignation of Mateusz Morawiecki

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has resigned, noted the PiS president while commenting on the party split. Kaczyński added that Morawiecki had previously proposed a division between them, noting that he spoke about it in private and later in front of witnesses, which leaves him surprised by Morawiecki’s current remarks.

Ultimatum Deadline and Association Memberships

Midnight on Thursday, July 23, marked the deadline for PiS parliamentarians to submit a statement confirming they do not belong to external associations, under threat of expulsion from the party. The matter primarily concerned members of the Rozwój Plus association, which was founded by former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki.

Departures and Political Committee Meeting

PiS President Jarosław Kaczyński stated on Friday, July 24, that thirty-odd MPs have resigned their membership in PiS. He added that the PiS Political Committee will formally acknowledge this fact next Tuesday, July 28, emphasizing that every party parliamentarian was fully aware of the consequences of failing to sign the declaration.

Size of the Scouting Faction

The “scouts” faction currently consists of 40 deputies, one senator, and three Members of the European Parliament. A full list of the politicians supporting Mateusz Morawiecki has been published by Gazeta.pl.

Accusations of Party Destruction

Speaking on wPolsce24, Kaczyński stressed that he does not wish to fuel arguments with the former prime minister, assessing that it was possible to deduce from the moment the association was formed that its goal was to smash the party. He added that all members of the Rozwój Plus association could have pursued its objectives from within the party.

Denial of Authoritarianism Within PiS

The PiS leader also addressed the statements regarding associations, commonly referred to as “loyalty oaths.” Kaczyński pointed out that if authoritarianism prevailed in PiS, the group would have been removed long ago, noting that those refusing to sign the loyalty declaration—or at least some of them—had already engaged in various concerning actions in the past.