Polish elections: Trzaskowski and Nawrocki held parallel debates
Two rounds of presidential debates took place in Końskie, Poland: opponents spoke separately, and some candidates accused the organizers of bias.
Photo: Nemesia Production, Unsplash
Poland — On April 11, two separate rounds of presidential debates were held in the town of Końskie, Poland. The first was organized by Karol Nawrocki’s campaign team and involved four candidates, according to PAP.
Rafał Trzaskowski did not participate, citing the presence of TV Republika and wPolsce24, which recently had their licenses revoked.
The second round took place in a sports hall prepared by Trzaskowski’s team. Eight candidates participated, including Nawrocki, who arrived from the previous event.
Each debate was broadcast by different media outlets.
The debates were divided into three thematic blocks: security, foreign policy, and the economy. Topics included mandatory military service, support for Ukraine, migration, and increased defense spending.
Some participants and observers criticized the format, citing unequal access for all registered candidates.
The presidential election in Poland is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, 2025. If no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote in the first round, a second round will be held on June 1, 2025.
Incumbent President Andrzej Duda is not eligible to run for a third term under the Polish Constitution. Registered candidates include Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski (Civic Coalition), historian Karol Nawrocki (supported by Law and Justice), Sejm Marshal Szymon Hołownia (Polska 2050), Sławomir Mentzen (Confederation), Magdalena Biejat (The Left), and others.