Krakow mayoral race intensifies as Confederation challenges PiS candidate

Following a May referendum that removed incumbent mayor Aleksander Miszalski of the Civic Coalition, Krakow will hold early mayoral elections in September. The right‑wing Confederation movement has launched an aggressive campaign, with spokesperson Bartosz Bocheńczak urging residents to vote and candidate Sławomir Mentzen distributing leaflets and promising to "restore Krakow." PiS has nominated local councilor Michał Drewnicki, who stresses his long‑standing ties to the city and extensive municipal experience. Analysts note that Confederation’s rapid mobilisation could give it a chance to upset PiS, potentially delivering a symbolic blow to the ruling party in a city traditionally out of its reach. The contest has heightened political tension in Krakow, with both parties seeking to mobilise voters ahead of the September vote.