A vote on dismissing Climate and Environment Minister Paulina Hennig-Kloska is testing the stability of Poland’s governing coalition, sparking internal criticism and accusations of ultimatums.
Minister Faces Dismissal Vote
A motion to dismiss Paulina Hennig-Kloska from her position as Minister of Climate and Environment, signed by approximately 100 MPs from Konfederacja and PiS, was submitted to the Sejm in late March.
The motion cites a lack of action to mitigate the negative impacts of EU climate policy on Poland, particularly regarding the ETS system, chaos surrounding the “Clean Air” program, and alleged negligence in preparing the energy and forestry sectors for the 2025/26 heating season, as well as accusations of “sabotaging the state.”
Internal Disputes Emerge
Aleksandra Leo, a member of the Centrum parliamentary club (formerly of Poland 2050), stated that Poland 2050 appears to be distancing itself but will likely vote against the dismissal of Hennig-Kloska.
Szymon Hołownia, Deputy Speaker of the Sejm and former leader of Poland 2050, responded by inviting Hennig-Kloska to address the club before the vote, suggesting she believes her importance exempts her from explaining herself to MPs.
Accusations of Ultimatums and Coalition Breakdown
Hołownia criticized Hennig-Kloska, referencing issues with “Clean Air,” questionable practices at BOŚ, and the removal of a biology professor from the Supervisory Board of WFOŚ in Białystok.
He added that the vote is about the stability of Poland, not individual figures, and warned of a return to familiar “coalition atmosphere.”
Premier Tusk Warns of Consequences
Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized that the vote on Hennig-Kloska will be a test of coalition loyalty, stating that cooperation requires solidarity and loyalty.
He indicated he would not cooperate with anyone voting to dismiss a minister from his own government, deeming such a move unacceptable.
Poland 2050 Leader Responds
Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz, leader of Poland 2050, criticized what she called an “ultimatum” from the Prime Minister, stating that the coalition agreement commits them to cooperation based on mutual respect and that a violent coalition is a path to disaster.
Minister Defends Position
Paulina Hennig-Kloska stated that questioning the inclusion of the Centrum club within the coalition undermines the government’s stability, as its support is crucial for a parliamentary majority.
She added that the Prime Minister has expressed his continued support for her position and questioned the intentions behind some of Pełczyńska-Nałęcz’s statements.