Donald Tusk Returns to Power as Polish Parliament Approves New Government

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
11/12/2023 20h00

Donald Tusk, after nine years out of power, has secured the support of the Polish parliament on Monday evening to head a new government. Tusk expressed his gratitude towards the Polish people during his address to the cheering MPs, stating that this was a great day for those who had long believed that the country could still see better days.

The day began with Poland's outgoing Prime Minister, Mateusz Morawiecki, losing a vote of confidence 266-190 in the lower house of parliament. This marked the official end of the Law and Justice (PiS) party's eight-year reign in power, paving the way for Tusk's return to the political scene.

Tusk, who hails from the Civic Coalition party, brings together various political groups to form a centrist, pro-EU government. The coalition includes the liberal Poland 2050 party, the conservative agrarian Polish People's Party, and the Left. This broad alliance aims to prioritize European values and work towards a stronger Europe for the benefit of the Polish people.

On Tuesday morning, Tusk is expected to present his Cabinet to parliament and outline his governing program. Afterward, a confidence vote will be held among the members of parliament. President Andrzej Duda's office has confirmed that he is ready to swear in the new government as early as Wednesday morning.

Following the announcement of Tusk's return to power, European Council President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged his experience and strong commitment to European values. She expressed her anticipation of working with him, starting with this week's important European Council meeting (EUCO).

The political landscape in Poland undergoes a significant shift as Donald Tusk prepares to lead a diverse coalition government, placing emphasis on European cooperation and unity. With the confidence of the parliament behind him, Tusk's return to power is expected to bring about substantial changes in Poland's political trajectory.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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