Poland’s ruling coalition is bracing for a vote on a motion of no confidence against Climate and Environment Minister Paulina Hennig-Kloska, initiated by PiS and Konfederacja.
Tensions Rise Ahead of Vote
The Sejm will address a joint motion from PiS and Konfederacja next week, seeking a vote of no confidence in Minister of Climate and Environment Paulina Hennig-Kloska. The motion cites 17 accusations, primarily concerning climate and energy policy, including alleged sabotage of energy independence through reliance on renewable sources, as well as issues with the “Clean Air” program and a lack of coherent forest policy.
PiS Aims to Destabilize Government
PiS openly aims to fracture the coalition. Janusz Kowalski of PiS stated he hopes other parliamentary groups will support the motion to remove Hennig-Kloska, presented jointly with Krzysztof Mulawa of Konfederacja.
Potential for Coalition Collapse
Unofficial sources within PiS suggest even broader scenarios, including the potential exit of Polska 2050 from the coalition and the subsequent collapse of Donald Tusk’s government. They believe that the addition of Polska 2050’s MPs would create a new majority with Konfederacja.
Polska 2050 and PSL Seek Dialogue
Polska 2050 and PSL have invited Hennig-Kloska to meetings next week to discuss concerns, including irregularities surrounding the “Clean Air” program and the recent dismissal of the BOŚ Bank president. Their support for Hennig-Kloska may hinge on her attendance and response.
Coalition Positions Vary
Currently, all options are on the table, including a vote for dismissal, according to Polska 2050’s Łukasz Osmalak, who hopes for openness from the minister. However, Bartosz Romowicz of Polska 2050 has stated he will vote for her dismissal regardless of any discussions.
Centrum Criticizes Coalition Pressure
Hennig-Kloska’s political base, the Centrum party, has criticized the pressure from coalition partners. Ewa Szymanowska of Centrum questioned the precedent of a minister attending individual meetings with parliamentary clubs during a vote of no confidence, citing the recent vote on Agriculture Minister Stefan Krajewski.
Disagreement Over Engagement
Szymanowska highlighted that Hennig-Kloska previously invited coalition MPs to her ministry, with only representatives from Centrum, KO, and Lewica attending, where department directors answered questions. Polska 2050 and PSL offered differing explanations for not attending that initial meeting.
Tusk Issues Ultimatum
Despite the coalition tensions, Hennig-Kloska is likely to retain her position, as Prime Minister Donald Tusk has staked his authority on the matter. Tusk warned Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz of Polska 2050 that a vote against Hennig-Kloska would result in the removal of Polska 2050 from the coalition.
