Poland rally: Kaczynski accuses government of illegal actions

On Saturday, Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the leader of Poland's right-wing opposition party, addressed a rally in Warsaw, where he accused the pro-European Union government of illegal actions and acting against national interests. The event attracted around four thousand supporters, who displayed national flags, and took place outside the Justice Ministry, a site emblematic of the ongoing political tensions in Poland. Kaczynski urged his followers to engage actively in social and political matters and to support his party's candidate for the upcoming presidential election, although he has yet to announce who that candidate will be. The backdrop of this rally is significant, as Kaczynski's Law and Justice party previously governed from 2015 to 2023, during which time they faced criticism from both Brussels and political opponents, including current Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The party's controversial reforms to the judicial system were labeled undemocratic, contributing to a polarized political climate. Many citizens have expressed fatigue with Kaczynski's divisive rhetoric, which has been a hallmark of his leadership style. Despite losing power in the 2023 elections, Law and Justice continues to influence Polish politics through President Andrzej Duda, who remains aligned with the party. Duda's presidency has been characterized by a contentious relationship with the current government, as he has been blocking several draft laws, leading to a challenging cohabitation scenario. His term is set to conclude in August, raising questions about the future political landscape in Poland. The rally reflects the ongoing struggle between Kaczynski's faction and the pro-EU government, highlighting the deep divisions within Polish society. As the country approaches the presidential election, the political dynamics will be crucial in shaping the future direction of Poland's governance and its relationship with the European Union.