Tusk Signs Decree for Early Kraków Mayoral Election After Miszalski Recall

Prime Minister Donald Tusk has signed the decree setting Kraków’s early mayoral election for September 27, 2026, following the successful recall of former mayor Aleksander Miszalski in a referendum.

Decree Published in the Journal of Laws

The regulation by the Prime Minister regarding the early snap election for the mayor of Kraków in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship was published in the Journal of Laws on Friday, July 31. According to paragraph 4, the document enters into force on the day of publication and is already legally binding.

Election Schedule and Voting Details

The voting will take place on Sunday, September 27, 2026, with polling stations open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. In accordance with the electoral calendar, the election campaign will officially conclude on September 25 at midnight.

Preparation and Legislative Consultations

The draft regulation was prepared by the Ministry of Interior and Administration and subsequently submitted for consultations. The Government Legislation Center reported on July 30 that it raised no objections and that the draft was exempted from review by the legal committee, contingent upon the National Electoral Commission having no reservations.

Impact of Election Protests on the Timeline

Under the Electoral Code, early elections should take place within 90 days of the announcement of the referendum results. However, Prime Minister Donald Tusk noted in June that the date might be slightly delayed due to pending election protests, pointing to September as the most probable timeframe.

Referendum Validity and Current Administration

The Kraków Court of Appeal dismissed the final appeal regarding the validity of the May 24 referendum, making the outcome definitive and paving the way for early elections. Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Stanisław Kracik, appointed by the Prime Minister, currently serves as the acting head of the city following Aleksander Miszalski’s recall.