Rzeszów City Council Deputy Chairman Jacek Strojny has launched a push for a recall referendum against Mayor Konrad Fijołek, citing fiscal decline and mismanagement as the primary drivers for his initiative.
A Call for Political Change
On Monday, May 25, Jacek Strojny announced his intention to initiate a recall process against the current mayor. Strojny, representing the Razem dla Rzeszowa movement, criticized the mayor for the city’s deteriorating finances, controversial real estate transactions, and a lack of transparency regarding the general urban plan.
Strojny has appealed to fellow councillors and Rzeszów residents for support, describing the current administration as chaotic and arrogant. He stated that it is time to end this political impasse through decisive action.
Legislative Hurdles and Council Support
Under local regulations, a formal request for a recall referendum requires the signatures of at least seven city councillors. While Strojny leads the push, his faction currently holds only four seats, necessitating broader cooperation from other members of the council to move the initiative forward.
Background on the Mayor
Konrad Fijołek, a sociologist by training, has been active in Rzeszów local politics since 2002. He served as chairman of the city council from 2006 to 2010 and has held the office of mayor since 2021, supported by his own committee and various political groups including the Civic Platform.
Context of Recent Referenda
This development follows a recent referendum held on Sunday, May 24, in Kraków, where voters supported the recall of President Aleksander Miszalski. Although 97.93 percent of participants in that vote backed the removal, the local council remained in place due to insufficient voter turnout.