Lumpenproletariat Shouts: Kaczyński Snaps at Smoleńsk Monthly Rally

During the Smoleńsk monthly commemoration at Piłsudski Square in Warsaw, PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński delivered a speech condemning protesters and addressing Russian culpability.

Wreaths Laid at Piłsudski Square

On Monday morning, August 10, a group of PiS politicians laid wreaths in front of the monuments to President Lech Kaczyński and the Victims of the 2010 Smoleńsk Tragedy at Piłsudski Square in Warsaw. They were led by Jarosław Kaczyński, who traditionally delivered a speech.

Kaczyński Blasts Protesters and Outlines Future Rule

During his speech, which was disrupted by demonstrators, the PiS leader assessed that today’s radical lack of support for Tusk and his government is a harbinger of a change in power. He announced that institutions will later be established to secure the cause of Polish the rule of law and democracy, and—as Kaczyński said—prevent actions such as taking over television or the prosecutor’s office.

Accusations Over the Smoleńsk Crash

Kaczyński also stated that a crime was committed in Smoleńsk by the Russian authorities, who—in his opinion—may have been helped by Polish collaborators, noting that this is very probable. He declared that Smoleńsk ceremonies will continue to be held and no shouts of the lumpenproletariat will change this, emphasizing that a day of victory will come when everyone who stood behind this crime will be punished. He stated that Russia is out of reach, but those in Poland will be caught and punished.

Police Intervention at the Monthly Gathering

Both sympathizers and opponents of PiS gathered at Piłsudski Square on Monday, with order maintained by the police, including riot control officers, some of whom wore blue vests marked conflict resolution team. These officers are tasked with de-escalation and reducing tension during mass events, and reacted swiftly to individuals showing aggression.

The 2010 Smoleńsk Air Disaster

On April 10, 2010, the Tu-154 aircraft carrying the Polish delegation to the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Katyń massacre crashed, killing 96 people. The victims included President Lech Kaczyński and First Lady Maria Kaczyński, government and parliamentary representatives, top military commanders, clergy, and the last President of the Republic of Poland in exile, Ryszard Kaczorowski.