Polish municipal recall referendum movements

In Poland, local movements have emerged to initiate referendums aimed at removing municipal leaders from office.

In Limanowa, residents have launched an initiative to remove Mayor Jolanta Juszkiewicz and the city council. This movement has faced local debate concerning the security of sensitive personal data, such as PESEL numbers, during door-to-door signature collection. Organizers have defended the practice, stating it is necessary for residents with mobility issues and that measures are in place to protect privacy.

In Gliwice, the association GLIWICE2026 has collected over 18,000 signatures to remove Mayor Katarzyna Kuczyńska-Budka, exceeding the legal requirement by approximately 40 percent. Organizers cite budget mismanagement, unfulfilled election promises, and the abandonment of a new municipal hospital project as primary motivations. The Provincial Electoral Commissioner in Katowice is tasked with verifying the signatures; if approved, a referendum must be held within 50 days, provided specific voter turnout thresholds are met.