In a significant development in Poland's upcoming presidential elections, the State Electoral Commission (PKW) has refused to register two candidates, Dawid Jackiewicz and Wiesław Lewicki, due to a substantial number of incorrectly submitted signatures. This decision highlights the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the electoral process as the nation prepares for the elections scheduled for May 18, 2025.
On April 10, 2025, the PKW announced that both candidates had submitted approximately 150,000 signatures each, a requirement to qualify for candidacy. However, upon verification, it was revealed that a large portion of these signatures were invalid. In Jackiewicz's case, 66,168 signatures were questioned by the commission, which found a staggering 2,881 names of deceased individuals on his support lists. Other discrepancies included incorrect addresses and PESEL numbers, which are essential for verifying voter identity.
For Lewicki, the situation was similarly problematic. The PKW deemed 46,776 of his signatures invalid, citing numerous errors. These included 4,694 instances of incorrect names, 27,974 incorrect addresses, 6,298 incorrect PESEL numbers, and various other issues such as missing voter signatures and incorrect dates of support. Notably, 5,805 signatures associated with Lewicki were found next to the names of deceased individuals, raising concerns about the integrity of the submitted support.
Both candidates have the right to appeal the PKW's decision. They can contest the ruling in the Supreme Court's Extraordinary Control Chamber, a move that could potentially alter the current landscape of candidates ahead of the election.
Despite the setbacks for Jackiewicz and Lewicki, the PKW has successfully registered 12 candidates for the presidential race. Among them is Maciej Maciak, representing the pro-Russian party Ruch Dobrobytu i Pokoju, who was confirmed as the 12th official candidate. The registration process has been particularly competitive, with a total of 17 applications submitted to the PKW by the deadline of April 4, 2025, at 4:00 PM.
Notable candidates already registered include prominent political figures such as:
- Rafał Trzaskowski from the Civic Coalition (KO),
- Karol Nawrocki, supported by the ruling Law and Justice party (PiS),
- Sławomir Mentzen from the Confederation,
- Szymon Hołownia from the Third Way,
- Magdalena Biejat from the Left,
- Adrian Zandberg from the Razem party.
Additionally, the PKW has registered:
- Grzegorz Braun (Confederation of the Crown),
- Marek Woch (Independent Local Government),
- Joanna Senyszyn (Democratic Left),
- Marek Jakubiak (Free Republicans),
- Artur Bartoszewicz (Independent economist).
As the election date approaches, three candidates are still awaiting decisions on their applications: Romuald Starosielec from the Movement for the Repair of Poland, entrepreneur Paweł Tanajno, and journalist Krzysztof Stanowski. The PKW's rigorous examination process reflects the importance of maintaining electoral integrity in Poland.
This year's presidential elections are particularly critical, as they will take place on May 18, 2025, with a potential second round scheduled for June 1, 2025. The scrutiny surrounding the registration process and the integrity of candidate support raises essential questions about the future of Polish democracy and electoral fairness.
In light of these developments, political analysts are closely monitoring the situation, especially as the legitimacy of the electoral process is vital for public confidence. The PKW's findings regarding invalid signatures may lead to heightened scrutiny of the candidates and their campaigns moving forward.
As the electoral landscape continues to evolve, the stakes are high for all candidates involved. The refusal to register Jackiewicz and Lewicki serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those seeking to participate in the democratic process, underscoring the need for accurate and honest representation of voter support.
With the election date looming, all eyes will be on the remaining candidates and their respective campaigns as they vie for the presidency in a politically charged environment. The outcome of this election could significantly shape Poland's future direction, influencing both domestic policies and international relations.
As voters prepare to make their choices, the integrity of the electoral process remains paramount. The PKW's commitment to ensuring that only valid candidates are allowed to run is a crucial aspect of maintaining public trust in the democratic system. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal as the candidates finalize their campaigns and engage with the electorate.
Ultimately, the Polish people will decide who will lead their nation, but the path to the presidency is fraught with challenges that require transparency, accountability, and a commitment to upholding democratic values.
