On April 27, 2025, Rafał Trzaskowski resumed his presidential campaign with a vibrant rally in Poznań, where he took aim at his political opponents from the ruling Law and Justice party (PiS). Addressing a crowd at Plac Wolności, Trzaskowski criticized Karol Nawrocki's convention held earlier in Łódź, mocking its attendance and the narrative surrounding it.
"Today there was supposed to be a big rally by the president's party. And what turned out? The truly big rally is here," Trzaskowski declared, eliciting applause from the crowd. He contrasted his gathering's energy with what he described as a misunderstanding in Łódź.
Trzaskowski's remarks were sharp and pointed. He ridiculed the sentiments expressed by PiS leaders, who claimed that everything would be taken away from them. "That shows the mentality of that side. They think only about losing money, positions, or the ability to engage in shady dealings. Nobody misses you," he stated firmly.
Trzaskowski directly addressed the PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński and his candidate Nawrocki, saying, "You just have to like people." He criticized Kaczyński for placing President Andrzej Duda and Nawrocki on stage together, implying that it signaled a desire for another presidency subordinate to Kaczyński's influence. "There is no consent for another Kaczyński puppet. We’ve had enough!" he exclaimed, drawing cheers from the audience.
The rally featured Radosław Sikorski, Poland's Minister of Foreign Affairs, who opened the event with a vision of Poland competing with the wealthiest European nations. He emphasized the need for cooperation between the president and the government, stating, "We need a president who will contribute to our success in this modernization race with other countries, not someone who puts a spoke in the wheel." Sikorski also highlighted that catching up with Germany is within reach for the current generation.
Małgorzata Trzaskowska, Rafał's wife, also spoke at the rally, emphasizing the stakes of the election for the future of Polish children. "It is essential that they live in a safe country managed by wise, competent, and honest people," she said, reflecting her commitment to ensuring that all voices, especially those of women, are heard.
Trzaskowski's speech was interlaced with historical references, including a nod to the recent 1000th anniversary of Bolesław Chrobry's coronation, which he used to draw parallels between past unity and the current political landscape. He stated, "Today we are at a similar moment, and that is the stake of these elections: whether we choose a president who will be the president of one tribe or someone who will be the president of all Poles, of the entire nation."
He lamented the divisions in Polish society, stating, "We’ve had enough of the times when we were constantly divided." Trzaskowski expressed that had he won the presidency in 2020, Poland would not have faced years of international embarrassment, violations of women's rights, or the destruction of the education system and economy under PiS rule.
As the rally progressed, Trzaskowski's tone remained optimistic, urging unity among all Poles regardless of political affiliations. "We want to build Poland for everyone, not just for our own kind. The metro should reach everyone, and hospitals must function for all during a pandemic," he declared.
He concluded by reinforcing his message of inclusion and love for all citizens, asserting that true patriotism is about building bridges rather than walls. "Real patriotism is about uniting, about extending a helping hand to everyone, not a fist," he emphasized.
Amidst the political fervor, recent polls indicate a competitive race ahead. An IBRiS poll for Polityka showed Trzaskowski's support at 30.4%, while a United Surveys poll indicated 31.7% for Trzaskowski and 27.6% for Nawrocki. The upcoming presidential debate on April 28, 2025, is expected to further shape the political landscape as candidates vie for voter support.
As the campaign heats up, Trzaskowski's rally in Poznań stands as a significant event, not only for its immediate political implications but also for its broader message of hope and unity in a time of division. The stakes are high, and Trzaskowski's vision for a more inclusive Poland resonates with many who attended the event, eager for change.
