Right-wing candidate Karol Nawrocki wins Poland’s presidential race after close contest Official Results Show

Karol Nawrocki, the populist-right opposition candidate backed by the Law and Justice party (PiS), has won the presidency of Poland with 50.89% of the vote in a fiercely fought runoff against Rafał Trzaskowski, who secured 49.11%.

The election result defied initial exit polls that had prematurely suggested a narrow win for Trzaskowski, prompting an early victory claim by the pro-European candidate, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Nawrocki’s win represents a major setback for the coalition government led by Donald Tusk. Analysts predict that this outcome will prolong the political deadlock in Poland, complicating both domestic governance and the country’s fraught relationship with the European Union.

Throughout a bitter and often hostile campaign, Nawrocki and Trzaskowski offered starkly contrasting visions for Poland’s future. Nawrocki campaigned on a platform of nationalism and conservative values, pledging to “save Poland,” while Trzaskowski appealed to pro-European integration and liberal reforms.

Nawrocki’s campaign had focused on traditional Catholic values, Euroscepticism, and strengthening ties with the US and NATO. He opposed deeper European integration and was associated with nationalist and populist rhetoric. In contrast, Trzaskowski had championed liberal democratic reforms, judicial independence, and closer EU integration. 

Voter turnout was high at around 71.6%, reflecting strong public engagement.

The presidency in Poland holds considerable power, including the ability to veto legislation passed by parliament, meaning Nawrocki’s victory could significantly influence the country’s political trajectory in the years ahead.

By Aghakazim Guliyev