Donald Tusk declares victory in Polish elections

In a pivotal national election, Poland’s opposition leader, Donald Tusk, has declared victory, signaling the end of the Law and Justice party’s eight-year reign in power. The triumph of Tusk’s Civic Coalition is set to reshape the political landscape in Poland.

Following the declaration of victory on Sunday evening, Tusk exclaimed, “I am the happiest man on earth.” The former prime minister and European Council leader further expressed, “Democracy has won. Poland has won. I have been a politician for many years. I’m an athlete.

“Never in my life have I been so happy about taking seemingly second place. Poland won. Democracy has won. We have removed them from power. This result might still be better, but already today we can say this is the end of the bad time, this is the end of Law and Justice rule.”

Remarkably, the Polish election witnessed a significant turnout, estimated at approximately 72.9%, the highest level since the fall of communism in 1989. This robust participation underscores the significance of the election in shaping the country’s future.

Donald Tusk, poised to lead alongside the centre-right Third Way and left-wing Lewica, has made pledges to enhance relations with the EU, potentially heralding a shift in Poland’s international stance.

Meanwhile, PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski, while acknowledging the election results, remained resolute, stating, “Regardless of whether we are in power or whether we are in opposition, we will implement this project in various ways and we will not allow Poland to be betrayed.”

This historic election outcome marks a turning point in Poland’s political landscape, with the Civic Coalition’s victory signifying the end of the Law and Justice party’s governance. As Poland awaits its new leadership, both domestic and international observers are keen to witness the potential changes that may ensue under Tusk’s leadership and his coalition government.

According to an Ipsos exit poll, the Civic Coalition is projected to secure 248 seats in the 460-seat lower house of parliament, while the Law and Justice party has garnered 200 seats.

To form a majority, a minimum of 231 seats is required. The Law and Justice (PiS) party, a right-wing populist group, received 36.8% of the vote, while the centrist opposition secured 31.6%, as indicated by the exit poll results. However, the PiS party remains uncertain whether these figures will suffice for them to secure a third term in power.