Poland's Political Crisis Deepens as President and Prime Minister Clash Over Rule of Law
Prime Minister Tusk's efforts to reverse controversial policies meet resistance from President Duda, signaling a prolonged power struggle.
- Poland's President Andrzej Duda and new Prime Minister Donald Tusk remain divided on the rule of law in the country, despite talks aimed at finding common ground.
- Tusk's government is taking steps to reverse the controversial policies of its predecessors, including making new appointments to key offices, taking control of state-owned media, and arresting two former government ministers convicted of abuse of power.
- Duda, who is aligned with the opposition, has criticized Tusk's government for applying the 'terror of the rule of law' and has indicated he will veto bills proposed by the government.
- Duda's position could be weakened after the May 2025 election, as his second and final term ends in August 2025.
- Tusk has stated that his government will continue to make tough decisions to 'cleanse the situation in Poland' and has criticized Duda and the Law and Justice party for attempting to maintain their privileges and sense of impunity.