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Poland's Razem party exits left-wing parliamentary caucus, cites policy differences with government

27.10.2024 18:00
The Polish left-wing Razem (Together) Party has decided to exit the Left parliamentary caucus and establish its own independent parliamentary group.
Adrian Zandberg (centre), co-chair of the Razem party, along with party members Maciej Konieczny (second from right), Marta Stożek (fifth from right) and Marcelina Zawisza (third from right), as well as Kraków city councilor Aleksandra Owca (fourth from right), during a press conference held by Razem party leaders and MPs in Warsaw, October 27.
Adrian Zandberg (centre), co-chair of the Razem party, along with party members Maciej Konieczny (second from right), Marta Stożek (fifth from right) and Marcelina Zawisza (third from right), as well as Kraków city councilor Aleksandra Owca (fourth from right), during a press conference held by Razem party leaders and MPs in Warsaw, October 27.Photo: PAP/Tomasz Gzell

The decision, made during a recent party congress, was motivated by Razem’s objections to government policies under Prime Minister Donald Tusk, according to national board member and spokesperson Mateusz Merta.

Razem’s grievances are focused on insufficient funding for healthcare, social housing and scientific research in the forthcoming budget, with Merta criticizing the government's approach as an obstacle to implementing Razem's program.

"This decision reflects our commitment to building a strong, independent and socially-oriented left," Merta stated.

He emphasized Razem’s vision for a democratic opposition, distinct from the right-wing parties of Konfederacja (Confederation) and Law and Justice (PiS)."

The party’s focus will now shift to opposition efforts within Poland's parliament and expanding its presence across various regions.

The Prime Minister’s office acknowledged on Friday that budget revisions are needed, citing updated revenue forecasts and an adjusted deficit cap.

Meanwhile, five lawmakers – Senate Deputy Speaker Magdalena Biejat, Senator Anna Górska, and MPs Joanna Wicha, Dorota Olko, and Daria Gosek-Popiołek – resigned from Razem on Thursday.

The Razem party secured eight parliamentary seats and two Senate seats in the last election.

Though previously aligned with the Left caucus, Razem had not joined the governing coalition and has frequently criticized government policies.

(ał)

Source: IAR