On November 18, 2023, Deputy Leader of the New Left and former Vice Speaker, Włodzimierz Czarzasty, was formally elected to replace Szymon Hołownia as Speaker of the Polish Sejm.
Circumstances of the Transition
After resigning, Szymon Hołownia’s departure came in accordance with the coalition agreement signed after the 2023 election. Czarzasty, who was the New Left’s co‑chair and former Vice Speaker, assumed the speaker’s duties.
His formal election took place during the first parliamentary session of the tenth term on November 18.
Constitutional Role of the Speaker
The speaker leads the lower house, presides over debates, represents the Sejm externally, and may temporarily assume presidential duties if the office is vacant.
Responsibilities include convening sessions, directing the Presidium and Senior Conclave, setting the agenda, and making procedural rulings that influence legislative pace and debate.
Background of Czarzasty
Born 3 May 1960 in Warsaw, he earned a degree in international relations from the University of Warsaw’s Faculty of Journalism and Political Science in 1988.
During his student years he held offices in the Polish Students Association at the university and later in its national executive. He was a member of the Polish United Workers’ Party (1983‑1990) before joining the Democratic Left Alliance after the political changes.
He held leadership roles in the Democratic Left Alliance, becoming one of its key figures, and later helped transform the party into the New Left in 2021, serving as its co‑chair with Robert Biedroń.
Coalition Agreement and Rotation Pact
The coalition agreement stipulates that the speaker seat will rotate: the first half of the term will be occupied by Szymon Hołownia of Poland 2050, and the second half by Czarzasty of the New Left.
While some politicians expressed reservations, coalition leaders insisted contracts must be honored and supported the rotation.
Implications for Parliamentary Leadership
Czarzasty’s election comes at a time of a coalition‑led Parliament with clear polarization; he must steer the Sejm while preserving coalition stability and advancing agreed policy priorities.
His leadership will also continue his New Left’s role in the governing camp, which already includes a vice‑premier and other ministries.
