Poland: Coalition tensions rise as minister resigns

Political instability is growing within Poland's governing coalition following the resignation of Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz from her position as Minister of Funds and Regional Policy. Pełczyńska-Nałęcz announced her departure via social media, citing a disagreement with the coalition's decision to maintain two-term limits for local government officials. She stated that she is leaving the government because “values are more important than seats” and criticized members of the Polska 2050 party for voting against the interests of the people.

Former Prime Minister Leszek Miller has warned that the current coalition faces significant arithmetic challenges. Miller suggested that while Donald Tusk may win future elections, he might struggle to secure the 231 votes required for a parliamentary majority. He noted that smaller partners like PSL and Polska 2050 face precarious positions, suggesting that the latter is heavily dependent on Tusk’s leadership.

Political analyst Antoni Dudek observed that Tusk has reached the peak of his power within the coalition, while the influence of Szymon Hołownia appears to be waning. The resignation of Pełczyńska-Nałęcz, who is also leaving her leadership role in Polska 2050, marks a significant fracture in the current governing alliance.