President-elect Karol Nawrocki announced the firm adherence to constitutional powers of the head of state.
In his conversation with the diary of Legal Newspapers, he ruled out the anticipation of concessions on key political issues, but besides declared his readiness to talk to the government – especially with the Minister of abroad Affairs – about cooperation with diplomatic institutions.
"I will not let the President's constitutional prerogatives to be undermined in the appointment of ambassadors," Nawrocki stated.
He pointed out that his intention was not to initiate political disputes. On the contrary, he cares about the effective functioning of the institutions of the state, provided that it respects constitutional principles. In his opinion, there must be no agreement on a situation where the President's decisions would be simply a formality.
"There are a number of issues in abroad policy where I see a field of cooperation. (...) I will propose to the Minister of abroad Affairs [Sikorski] a gathering to settle the substance of ambassadorial nominations.”
The president-elect suggests that it is possible to find a common language with the government, provided that limits he does not intend to exceed are taken into account. Among them, he lists circumstantial candidatures which he believes should not represent Poland internationally.
"I have 2 red lines: Ryszard Schnepf and Bogdan Klich. I will not quit due to the fact that I know that both gentlemen are incapable to service Poland decently. It is simply a shame that individual came up with an thought to bring out their candidacy.”
Nawrocki leaves no uncertainty that these circumstantial individuals will not receive his approval. In his opinion, their past and public attitude are incompatible with the duties of representing the Republic outside the country. This message is simply a signal not only to the MFA but besides to the public – the fresh president intends to exercise his powers in a realistic and liable way.
In a broader context, Nawrocki besides referred to another presidential prerogatives, including the right to appoint judges – 1 of the key competences that has sparked many controversy in fresh years.
"But I surely won't do anything to undermine the President's prerogative. The appointment of judges shall be 1 of such.”
The President-elect stressed that this was not just about staff issues, but about the president's essential function as co-host of the state. In his view, defending prerogatives is not a question of individual ambition, but a part of a constitutional order that requires stableness and respect for the division of competences.
Nawrocki's statements clearly draw the figure of the head of state, who does not intend to execute ceremonial functions, but actually co-shape state policy – especially where the Constitution gives the president clear powers. At the same time, however, it stresses openness to cooperation, provided that it is carried out on the basis of common respect.
