Donald Tusk Backs Miszalski: Kraków Referendum a 'Political Stunt'

The political situation in the capital of Lesser Poland has become a central point of the national local government debate. The flashpoint is the initiative for a referendum to recall Aleksander Miszalski, who assumed the office of President of Kraków in 2024. Prime Minister Donald Tusk, defending his party colleague, stated that the petition is not driven by the genuine voice of residents but by a political calculation by Law and Justice and Confederation. The head of government argued that the only reason for pursuing the vote is to cause chaos in a city that, after years under Jacek Majchrowski, is undergoing changes under the leadership of a Civic Coalition politician. In the shadow of official government support, a discussion has flared up about a supposed contingency plan for the city. According to unofficial media reports, in the event of a successful referendum, the new candidate of the ruling camp would be Bogdan Klich. The diplomat, currently on a mission in Washington, firmly denied these reports, issuing a statement saying, "I kindly inform you that I am focused on my duties in the USA." Nevertheless, commentators point out that Klich—as a recognizable and experienced figure—could "win easily" in potential snap elections. Defending Miszalski, albeit in his own unique style, was also Jacek Majchrowski. The senior President called the initiative a hustle, noting that it is being organized by the same people who fought his administration for two decades. In the background of personal clashes, a dispute over the development direction of the metropolis is ongoing. Majchrowski caused controversy by stating that the construction of the metro is not needed for Kraków, which contradicts the promises of the new team. City Hall is trying to fend off attacks by placing greater emphasis on social policy, symbolized by the steady increase in the number of nursery places. However, referendum sentiments are not limited to Lesser Poland. In Lower Silesia, in the municipality of Sobótka, a protest committee has already collected the required number of signatures for a petition to recall the mayor and the city council, suggesting a broader trend of increased activity in local government in Poland.The history of Kraków's referendums dates back to 2000, when an attempt was made to recall then-President Andrzej Gołaś; since then, this instrument has often been used as a tool of political pressure, though it has rarely led to the successful removal of a mayor before the end of their term.„To jedyny powód tego referendum. To jest pomysł prawicy na zamieszanie i rozróbę polityczną. Miszalski ma nasze pełne wsparcie.” — Donald Tusk As the date of a potential vote approaches, Kraków is becoming a key battleground between the government and the opposition. The outcome of this battle will decide not only the fate of President Miszalski but also the durability of local alliances and the investment direction of the entire region.