Duda Expected To Block Legislation In Protest Over Actions Of New Gov't

Polish President Andrzej Duda has reportedly ruled out the "nuclear option" of trying to push for a snap election, according to a source report circulated by Onet, as he is aware that a new poll would be unlikely to result in a change of government. However, he intends to use "total obstruction" and block all legislation proposed by the new administration.

• Duda is apparently planning to send letters to all leaders of EU member states and the US protesting against the arrest of two lawmakers convicted for abuse of power and the alleged breaches of the law by the new government.
• The report suggests that Duda was not expecting that the police would enter the Presidential Palace to capture the two convicted officials and regrets that he briefly left the building to attend a meeting.
• According to the report, Duda will not sign any bills passed by the parliamentary majority until the two officials are released. Note that his veto can only be overruled by a 3/5 supermajority in the lower house.
• The strategy does not threaten the adoption of the 2024 budget in coming days, as the fiscal plan is the only bill which the President cannot veto. Parliament has to submit the bill to the President by the end of the month or face dissolution.