In Poland, nearly 190,000 candidates are running for local government positions in the upcoming elections, including mayors and councillors. This election is seen as a crucial test for Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s coalition government, which took power almost four months ago. Tusk’s appointment marked a shift towards a more pro-European stance, after eight years of nationalist rule.
The coalition led by Tusk won the parliamentary elections on promises to reverse judicial reforms that critics said undermined the courts’ independence. Tusk has warned that a victory for his liberal Civic Coalition is crucial to prevent a return to nationalist rule under the Law and Justice party. Sunday’s election results will also have implications for the upcoming European Parliament elections in June.
While Tusk has made significant changes in the courts and state media, he faces criticism for not fulfilling all election promises and facing questions over the legality of some reforms. Conversely, PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski sees the local elections as an opportunity to upend the current government, accusing them of dishonesty and failing to deliver on promises.
Run-off votes will be held on April 21 for mayoral candidates who do not secure at least 50 percent of the vote in the first round. The outcome of these elections will have a significant impact on the political landscape in Poland and will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers.
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