Defeated Polish PM stands down
PR dla Zagranicy
Nick Hodge
12.11.2015 15:47
Ewa Kopacz officially stood down as prime minister of Poland on Thursday afternoon during the first session of parliament since the 25 October general election.
Ewa Kopacz stands down as prime minister. Photo: PAP/Paweł Supernak
Kopacz's centrist Civic Platform party was roundly defeated in the election, having led a coalition government for two consecutive four-year terms.
The outgoing prime minister's address to the lower house of parliament on Thursday followed the swearing in of MPs, with the make-up of the chamber now dominated by the victorious, conservative Law and Justice party.
“Today, Law and Justice takes over power,” Kopacz began.
“I wish the new government success in carrying everything out better than Civic Platform, but I warn you that this will not be easy,” she said.
“We shall not say that Poland ceases to be Poland.
“But we remember all of your promises, and we will be following your every word.”
The outgoing prime minister likewise alluded to Law and Justice's plans to change the Constitution.
“I warn you against the destroying the foundations of the state.
“If you attempt to destroy it, we will do everything to stop you,” she claimed.
“Even if you outvote us, you will not succeed in quietly destroying democracy.
“Every Pole will hear about it, as that is the role of the opposition.”
In keeping with protocol, President Duda officially accepted the outgoing prime minister's standing down.
Later on Thursday, at 5:00pm, the inaugural post-election session of the Senate is set to take place, led by the president. (nh/rk)