Poland 2050’s National Council opts for a repeat second-round election between minister Hennig-Kloska and minister Pełczyńska-Nałęcz by January 31.
Repeat Runoff Decision
Following the National Council’s Monday decision, Poland 2050 will hold only a repeat of the invalidated second internal election round. Minister Paulina Hennig-Kloska and Minister Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz, head of the funds and regional policy ministry, will compete. Voting must conclude by January 31, with a specific date set in the coming days.
The Council also considered proposals to repeat the entire electoral procedure, supported by founder Szymon Hołownia (absent as he was returning from a foreign trip) and his allies. However, a large majority backed holding only a new runoff election.
Leadership Battle Dynamics
Supporters of Hennig-Kloska believe her chances of victory are higher, citing Monday and Friday party leadership proceedings. They note she gained backing from the other three initial candidates who lost on January 10: Ryszard Petru, Joanna Mucha, and Rafał Kasprzyk, who all urged their voters to support her.
One supporter claimed the National Council would have elected Hennig-Kloska chair on Monday. They expect members to consider the other candidates’ endorsements. Pełczyńska-Nałęcz allegedly offered Hennig-Kloska co-chairmanship on Monday to ensure unity, but Hennig-Kloska rejected it, stating it was uncoordinated and discussions months prior were vague. She maintained her offer for Pełczyńska-Nałęcz to be her deputy if she wins.
Technical System Overhaul
The repeat second round requires a new online voting system by the end of the month, as the previous system failed during the January 12 second round due to high login traffic, leading to the vote’s annulment. The issue was reported to the ABW and prosecutor’s office.
Opponents of Hennig-Kloska criticize her rejection of co-chairmanship, with one stating, “Pride goes before a fall,” arguing Pełczyńska-Nałęcz sought party unity. Another supporter said, “Honestly? It doesn’t matter to me who wins.”
