The Polish People’s Party (PSL) has submitted a bill to revise President Duda’s “SAFE Zero Percent” initiative, addressing constitutional concerns and expanding fund scope.
PSL Bill Aims to Rectify Presidential Plan’s Flaws
The PSL has presented a bill to the Sejm, authored by the PSL club, intended to correct perceived errors in the President’s proposal regarding the Polish Investment Defense Fund. PSL leader Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced the submission during a press conference.
Kosiniak-Kamysz stated the bill addresses constitutional issues identified in the original proposal and incorporates feedback received during discussions.
Funding from National Bank of Poland Considered
The Minister of National Defence indicated interest in utilizing funds from the National Bank of Poland (NBP) to bolster national security, contingent upon the availability of profits.
He emphasized the importance of swiftly allocating any NBP profits to the government and the Fund, given the recent emergence of such profits after a four-year period without them.
Expanded Scope of Fund’s Activities
The PSL’s proposal broadens the range of entities eligible for funding from the investment fund. Particular attention is given to services like the Police and Border Guard.
The bill also prioritizes cybersecurity, special services, and military healthcare, according to Kosiniak-Kamysz.
Alignment with EU Strategy and Constitutional Compliance
Kosiniak-Kamysz affirmed the project’s alignment with the “European strategy for the defense industry” (SAFE) and its adherence to the Polish Constitution. He stated the bill streamlines the President’s proposal and removes obstacles hindering fund access.
He announced the proposal via X, emphasizing collaboration and a focus on strengthening the army, police, Border Guard, SOP, and special services.
Previous Discussions and Presidential Concerns
The PSL’s proposal follows earlier discussions, with Kosiniak-Kamysz previously stating the bill would be “free of errors” related to unconstitutionality found in the presidential version.
The SAFE program, part of the 2024 European defense industry strategy, involves 19 EU countries and a total of 150 billion euros. President Duda vetoed the initial SAFE bill, proposing “SAFE zero percent” as an alternative.
President’s Proposal Deemed Insufficient
Kosiniak-Kamysz criticized the presidential project as “worse than expected,” citing concerns about exceeding presidential authority through the introduction of new institutions.
Sejm Speaker Raises Funding Questions
Sejm Speaker Włodzimierz Czarzasty stated on March 19th that lawmakers could not proceed with President Karol Nawrocki’s “Polish SAFE zero percent” proposal due to the lack of identified funding sources.
Internal Tensions Within PiS
Reports indicate growing discontent within the Law and Justice (PiS) party regarding Przemysław Czarnek’s leadership, with concerns raised about his potential impact on electoral support.