At 11:00, the Senior Marshal of the Sejm, Antoni Macierewicz, will arrive at the Sejm to lay flowers before the memorial plaques of the late President Lech Kaczyński, John Paul II, the late Marshal of the Sejm Maciej Płażyński, parliamentarians - victims of World War II, and parliamentarians who died in the Smoleńsk air disaster. At 11:45, President Andrzej Duda will arrive at the Sejm and will also lay flowers at the previously indicated locations.

At 12:00, the Senior Marshal will open the 1st session of the IX term of the Sejm. The national anthem will be played. Following this, the Senior Marshal will invite the President to deliver an address. After listening to the Head of State, the Deputies will take their oath in accordance with the text established by the Constitution. Subsequently, the first decision of the Deputies of the IX term will take place, which is the election of the Marshal of the Sejm. Later, Deputy Marshals will also be elected. Also on Tuesday, in accordance with the Constitution, the Prime Minister will submit the resignation of the Council of Ministers.

At 16:00, the 1st session of the X term of the Senate will commence, which will be opened by President Andrzej Duda. The inaugural session will be presided over by Senior Marshal Barbara Borys-Damięcka. Elected Senators will take their oath, and will also elect the Marshal and Deputy Marshals of the Senate. During the 1st session, Senate Secretaries will also be elected. Also today at 10:00, at the Presidential Palace, President Andrzej Duda will present general nominations to nine officers of the Polish Army.

Elżbieta Witek will almost certainly become the Marshal of the Sejm - PiS holds an independent majority in the lower house. The situation in the Senate is uncertain, despite the opposition's slight advantage. It is also unknown whether the largest club in the upper house, PiS, will secure its Deputy Marshal of the Senate. Over the weekend, Wiosna (Spring) published a graphic online detailing the division of the four Deputy Marshal positions - the Senate's regulations do not permit more - among Lewica, PO, PSL, and independent senators. However, some opposition politicians, including Lewica and PSL, distanced themselves from such an idea.

- This attitude is very characteristic. These statements. It resembles very sectarian, not to say mafia-like, relationships. So, some pressure, some exertion on those who could implement, after all, it is the calling of a politician to implement changes that will improve the functioning of state institutions. Meanwhile, here we have a refusal. Because anyone who would eventually decide to support the ruling majority will face pressure. This has nothing to do with democracy. Such are the people who constitute the opposition today - said Mariusz Błaszczak in an interview with Piotr Goćek on "Sygnały dnia" on Polish Radio Channel One. 

- I don't, and I take it as a compliment [that no one from PiS called him] - stated Bogdan Zdrojewski in an interview with Krzysztof Skórzyński on TVN24's "Jeden na jeden".

- There was no need [to extract loyalty declarations from PO-KO senators]. It seems the club is disciplined, convinced of the candidate for [Senate] Marshal. He will be present, everyone arrived yesterday or very late yesterday. So I think the choice of Marshal should be without surprises - he continued.

„Please remember that there are many other positions in the Senate: deputy speakers, chairpersons. Conversations are constantly ongoing there. From what can be heard in pronouncements and from what colleagues have told me, they were approached in various ways. It is undeniable that at least several colleagues received offers. They wrote about this on Twitter, in statements, but they firmly refused such political corruption. This is bribery” – said Tomasz Grodzki, senator-elect of Civic Coalition and candidate for the Marshal of the Senate, in an interview with Piotr Witwicki on Polsat News.

We will see what happens. All options are possible. Cards on the table. So we will see. When the session begins, then we will talk about what the possibilities are. I'll say this. If not today, then perhaps in time it will be good. I have such hope [that PiS will have a majority], however, today it cannot be said that such a majority exists – said Krzysztof Sobolewski in an interview with Dorota Kania on Polish Radio 24.

- Regarding the deputy speakers [of the Senate], it seems to me that the proposals put forward are acceptable, but we are currently discussing committee chairs and vice-chairs. It must be remembered that the Senate also has its own powers, its own competencies in delegating various individuals to different institutions, to the IPN council, etc. - stated Bogdan Zdrojewski in an interview with Krzysztof Skórzyński on TVN24's "Jeden na jeden".

- It seems to me that PiS should have one deputy speaker [of the Senate]. Just as Civic Platform had previously. It must be remembered that Civic Coalition will probably also have one deputy speaker - he added. - Giving PiS two deputy speakers, it seems to me, would be an exaggeration - he continued.

– The offer of PiS, United Right, for those who want to implement the demands they went to the elections with, meaning what they promised voters, and to implement such demands, it is usually easiest within the ruling camp. Anyone who wants to implement their electoral assumptions, their electoral program, is welcome to United Right. It will be easier here – said Krzysztof Sobolewski in an interview with Dorota Kania on Polskie Radio 24.

- Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska [is the favorite to become the Civic Coalition's presidential candidate]. It seems to me that, theoretically, there are of course more candidates. [Donald Tusk] failed regarding the date of the decision [to withdraw from running in the presidential elections]. I believe he should have made it either around June or, as he announced, on December 2nd. This suddenness has caused everyone to wonder why now. They were unprepared for it. It was also evident from the tweets that appeared online that this was a great disappointment, but he had the right to this decision. Looking at the justification for this decision, given in stages, he is right - stated Bogdan Zdrojewski in an interview with Krzysztof Skórzyński on TVN24's "One on One".

• In my opinion, [Grzegorz Schetyna] should have a competitor in the [PO leadership] elections, should he decide to run. If Grzegorz Schetyna decides to run, I will be his competitor. One of several. And I will say this straight away: not one who will resign at the eleventh hour. I will certainly [run for the position of PO leader] if Grzegorz Schetyna also aspires to it – stated Bogdan Zdrojewski in an interview with Krzysztof Skórzyński on TVN24's "Jeden na jeden".

„I am convinced that our senators will pass this test [the election of the Senate Marshal] positively. I am strongly surprised by this, because we never had such an intention [to deprive PiS of the Deputy Marshal position]. We will not replicate the behavior of PiS, which, for example, did not give the Deputy Marshal position to PSL. If I am Marshal, I guarantee that PiS will have a Deputy Marshal” - said Tomasz Grodzki, senator-elect of Civic Coalition and candidate for Senate Marshal, in an interview with Piotr Witwicki on Polsat News.

- In politics, it is normal for discussions to take place, for dialogue to occur. We have repeatedly witnessed in the Third Polish Republic how politicians from different parties, various groupings, have changed their colors. They recognized that from the perspective of, for example, realizing their programmatic goals, with which they went to the elections, which they told their voters, it is more advantageous to support the parliamentary majority. How it will be in this case – I absolutely do not want to prejudge – stated Michał Dworczyk in a conversation with Krzysztof Ziemiec on TVP1's "Political Quarter of an Hour".

- Yesterday I spoke with the Prime Minister. I know that there is no final decision yet on this matter [appointments for the Ministry of Sport]. There are several very good names. I personally know of two excellent candidates who are potentially being considered. However, these are decisions for the Prime Minister, and also for the President and party leadership. It is inappropriate to speculate on this topic until decisions are made - stated Michał Dworczyk in an interview with Krzysztof Ziemiec on TVP1's "Political Quarter of an Hour".

- Today in the Sejm, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki will submit his resignation on behalf of the entire government. The documents will be handed over to the President. Then, the date naturally depends on the President. The President will designate – we already know this, as there have been announcements and decisions made – a new Prime Minister, the new-old one, because it will be Mateusz Morawiecki. And then, the swearing-in must take place, followed by the exposure and a vote of confidence from the Sejm, stated Michał Dworczyk in an interview with Krzysztof Ziemiec on TVP1's "Political Quarter of an Hour".

When asked about the date of the exposure, the Head of the Chancellery of the Prime Minister replied: - There is no final decision on this matter. In my opinion, Tuesday, November 19th, is more likely at this moment, but there is no final decision yet. This is also, among other things, a decision of the Marshal of the Sejm. These matters are currently being finalized.

„The overwhelming majority of comments, especially from the opposition, are completely detached from the reality of the European Union today. The truth is that for 10 years, the center of gravity for decision-making, often on very specific matters, has been shifting to the European Council, where Poland is represented by the Prime Minister. Without this decision, Poland would be the only country in the EU without direct EU backing. I am surprised that individuals even close to European affairs are repeating things that might have made sense 10-15 years ago” - said Deputy Minister Konrad Szymański in an interview with Beata Michniewicz on Radio Trójka.

„This remark [by Witold Waszczykowski] has a completely different character. It reflects concern for maintaining the cohesion of the administration and government. Such concern is never excessive. I can assure you that this will be carried out in such a way that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will retain its proper role in this process, as will our network of diplomatic missions” - said Deputy Minister Konrad Szymański in an interview with Beata Michniewicz on Radio Trójka.

- It was a decision by Wrocław's local government, not the Polish government, which must be emphasized. There are already disinformation campaigns online attempting to shift the responsibility for this onto the Polish government. It was a decision by the authorities of the city of Wrocław, associated with Mr. Sutryk, and not with Law and Justice - stated Adam Andruszkiewicz in an interview with Michał Rachoń on TVP Info's program "Jedziemy," commenting on the dissolution of the Independence March in Wrocław.

- We always say and implement that this type of provocation should not be organized and that such marches should not be dispersed by force, as it leads to unnecessary conflicts. We always strive, if we have any influence on demonstrations, to do everything to ensure they proceed peacefully. Let public opinion then judge their expression and the views articulated. We never support any extreme actions or slogans - he added.

“We shall see. I hope everything is alright, that the electoral verdict, 51 seats for the opposition, will allow for the election of the Senate Marshal and Presidium. The method of open, personal voting is not precise enough. We must do everything to ensure it is in accordance with the rules. We know how this must be conducted. Elder Marshal Barbara Borys-Damięcka is prepared to conduct it in accordance with the regulations” – said PO chairman Grzegorz Schetyna in a conversation with journalists in the Sejm.

"It is a good democratic custom for all parliamentary groups, clubs, and PiS, as the largest club, to have their representation [in the Senate Presidium]. We are starting with the election of the Speaker" - said PO Chairman Grzegorz Schetyna in a conversation with journalists in the Sejm.

– We have concluded the first meeting of the parliamentary club, which will be named Koalicja Polska - Polskie Stronnictwo Ludowe - Kukiz’15 in the Sejm – Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz stated in the Sejm.

– The first, very important decision made by the parliamentary club was the motion and desire to continue the Polish Coalition – the PSL chairman continued.

– The first decision was the establishment of the Polish Coalition Council, which includes the leaders of individual parties. I am a member, as are Elżbieta Bińczycka and Marek Biernacki. Paweł Kukiz is also a member, and Paweł Kukiz has been elected the head of the Polish Coalition Council – he added.

– We have also elected the club's leadership. I have been appointed chairman. I will hold this position for the entire Polish Coalition. The vice-chairmen are Jarosław Sachajko, Marek Sawicki, Jacek Protasiewicz, and Jacek Tomczak. Urszula Nowogórska has become the club's secretary – Kosiniak-Kamysz announced.

– We have also recommended individuals as candidates for Deputy Speakers of the Sejm and Senate. These recommendations were given to Member of Parliament Piotr Zgorzelski and Senator Michał Kamiński. Marek Biernacki will be the candidate for the special services committee – announced the leader of the People's Party.

– Due to further challenges and my involvement in the presidential campaign, Jakub Stefaniak will collaborate more closely with me, and Miłosz Motyka has become the spokesperson for the parliamentary club – stated the PSL chairman.

- I wanted to thank all our fellow citizens, voters, who in such a responsible and extraordinary, perhaps unexpected for anyone, manner expressed their responsibility and sense of civic duty, by exercising their right to vote in the recent parliamentary elections. 18.5 million citizens, 62% of voters who turned out to cast their vote in the parliamentary elections, is a result not recorded since 1989. For this, I wanted to thank all Poles, both at home and abroad, all those who cast their vote, who did so with a sense of responsibility for the affairs of our state, for our future, I wanted to thank them with all my heart - stated President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the Sejm of the new term. 

This inaugural IX term of the Sejm, that of a free, sovereign, and independent Poland after 1989, is also, and certainly so, a remarkable time for you, Members of Parliament, because it is a great honour, by the choice of Polish society, our voters, to sit in this chamber, to discuss the most important Polish matters, how Poland should develop, to exchange views, representing different perspectives on Poland, but a Poland that, I have no doubt, we would all want to remain free, sovereign, and independent for all time – said President Andrzej Duda during the first sitting of the Sejm of the new term.

- This year, in 2019, Poles passed their electoral exam perfectly, going en masse to both the European and parliamentary elections. I thank them wholeheartedly for this. This strong mandate is enormously needed by Polish MEPs, and needed by Polish MPs in the Sejm and Senate - stated President Andrzej Duda during the first sitting of the new parliamentary term of the Sejm. 

„It is a beautiful thing to be elected by citizens to the Polish Sejm. I had the honor of serving alongside you here. It was a period of my life that I remember with great fondness. The memories of the contacts I had with you, the matters we dealt with, the discussions, sometimes fervent, political ones, which were so substantive and contained so many arguments about how Poland should look, are still very valuable to me today. I would like to wish you that such debates continue to take place in the Polish Sejm, that you may continue to discuss Polish affairs. I am convinced that on many important issues, agreement and common ground can be found, even if there are differences of opinion” – said President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the 9th term Sejm.

- I wanted to thank you for conducting such an active campaign. Thanks to your work, and perhaps primarily to it, the voter turnout in these elections was so high. Thank you for that - said President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the new term of the Sejm.

- I am extremely happy and grateful that, from very different sides of our political scene, Poland is one and shared, and that in matters most crucial for Poland, we need unity. I would very much like for you, ladies and gentlemen, in this chamber, to be able to recognize these very issues. In my opinion, this is of fundamental importance. I am aware that we are a democratic society. Today, it is permissible to hold different views, and it is very good that they exist, as this is a characteristic of democracy. If they did not, it would be dangerous. I am extremely pleased that there is this broad social representation, as I have already emphasized, in this very chamber. It is also very good that this debate will encompass a wide spectrum of political visions, but we also have many different denominations in Poland - said President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the Sejm of the new term.

„I see many crises in recent years, unfortunately, which also happen here, such statements that can hurt many people in Poland, that strike at the deepest layers of our tradition, the sources of our origin, everything we have grown up with and which, through many years of our extremely difficult history, has allowed us to survive the darkest moments, when we were being Russified, Germanized, when they tried to tear away our tradition, our language. They attempted to make our ancestors into other people of a different culture, different customs, different mentality. This did not succeed” – said President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the 9th term Sejm.

„I very much ask that conduct in the Sejm be of a creative nature, not destructive. I also ask that the conduct not be scandalous. People very much expect this. You can be sure of that. I genuinely talk with my fellow citizens a lot; I meet with them often. This is a very important element of public service, including presidential service. I don’t need to mention that. People expect substantive debate, discussions about matters important to them. They do not expect anyone’s views to be trampled upon by anyone else” – said President Andrzej Duda during the First Sitting of the Ninth Term of the Sejm.

“I am not asking you to change your views. I am asking for parliamentary language in the debate. For language that does not offend or insult anyone, because that is very important. You can have views, and you must have them, because if someone has no views, they shouldn’t be sitting here. You are sitting here precisely because you have views. They are often very distinct, strong, and deep; some use the word radical, but I ask that the language of debate not be radical, but rather a language of respect. I have appealed for this already and will continue to appeal indefinitely, because Poland needs this immensely, and I am deeply convinced that the majority of our compatriots expect it. Let the parliamentary debate not offend or cause scandal” – stated President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the Sejm of the new term. 

- I will recall words from 30 years ago. "We are not standing in lost positions as a nation if we summon the effort, patience, and will to act. Let us have faith in the spiritual and material forces of the nation. I believe that God will help us to take a great step on the path that opens before us." Ladies and gentlemen, who said this 30 years ago? There are certainly people who remember these words. Prime Minister Tadeusz Mazowiecki said them in his inaugural exposé in 1989, as the first non-communist prime minister of a reborn Poland. A man respected today by people of very different views. They respect him because he was the first non-communist prime minister of the Polish government who had the will to implement the transformations of the Republic. We will evaluate them differently. Pay attention to what he referred to. Faith in the spiritual and material forces of the nation. Let us always have faith in the spiritual and material forces of the nation and let us respect them, because they are in the hearts of very many Poles - said President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the Sejm of the new term.

- I have said these words before, but I will repeat them once more. President Lech Kaczyński, my president, under whom I once served as a minister, an honor I consider a great privilege in my life, said that the foundation of patriotism, unlike nationalism and other attitudes, is love. Love for the homeland, but also for fellow human beings, for our fellow citizens. Let this be the fundamental element above all, including what is happening and what is being discussed here, in this chamber. I ask for this, it is very important, also for the quality of the debate that will take place here over the next 4 years - stated President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the Sejm of the new term. 

- Poland is one, and I ask you to always remember this. I would like you now, at the beginning of this term, to shake hands. Yes, simply, like those who meet to debate very important matters and know how to sit down and discuss calmly. In order to meet and part in peace and friendship. Despite all differences and divisions. Each of you has friends, and very often family, with different views. You know this. We should do everything to minimize these disputes, especially within families. Sometimes they say: the fish rots from the head. The head is here. Thank you very much - stated President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the Sejm of the new term. 

- Although fundamental, extremely important changes in social, economic, and historical matters were carried out in the previous parliamentary term, the responsibility for finally dealing with the dark legacy of communism falls on us, Madam and Sir Deputies - said Antoni Macierewicz, the senior marshal, at the first session of the new parliamentary term of the Sejm.

- Although this Sejm, representing all political currents of the Polish nation, is very diverse, an absolute majority of voters supported those groupings that clearly referenced national, independence, and Catholic values - said Antoni Macierewicz, the senior marshal, at the first session of the new term of the Sejm.

- We know what it means to leave agent networks in important positions within public administration, higher education, the judiciary, and the media. We know the geopolitical threats arising from the utopian attempt to build a neo-socialist empire and who our real strategic allies are. Finally, we know that a nation incapable of defending its independence and rebuilding its demographic potential must fall. We know what we want to defend ourselves against and where we want to go - said Antoni Macierewicz, the senior Marshal, at the first session of the new Sejm term.

- I appeal to all ladies and gentlemen deputies to reject this negation of the independent Polish state and the foundations of Christian civilization. I appeal for respect for the independence efforts of the Polish nation, for the millions of victims of German and Soviet occupation. For the lost opportunities of thousands rejected, disregarded, and scorned. In recent years, Poles have regained a sense of their own dignity, national strength, and have finally become masters in their own home. These are priceless values that should be strengthened, not destroyed. It is time to start building the edifice of an independent Polish state based on principles derived from Christian social teaching. After nearly 30 years of struggling with post-communism, we know perfectly well which decisions build independence and which lead astray. We know the price we pay for the Round Table agreements and what the next phase of the post-Marxist attack looks like, and where gender ideology leads - stated the senior marshal Antoni Macierewicz during the first session of the Sejm of the new term. 

We must build a strong nation-state with a clear hierarchy of values, distinguishing patriotism from treason. Good from evil. The civilization of life from the civilization of death. At the same time, respecting democracy and differences of opinion. This is precisely what Blessed Father Jerzy Popiełuszko taught us – stated President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the Sejm of the new term. 

The common ground for this work is the Constitution. All citizens, especially those who make the law, must respect the fundamental law. Three articles of the Constitution form the legal, social, and moral foundation of our state order. These are Articles 8, 18, and 38 of the Constitution - stated the Senior Marshal Antoni Macierewicz during the first session of the Sejm of the new term. - The Constitution can be repaired, changed, improved, but today it stands above all different sources of law. Moreover, the Constitutional Tribunal formulated the same position - he continued. No provision is more important for strengthening the demographic development of the nation, supporting its cohesion, and guaranteeing social order and security. And finally, Article 38, which states that human life is inviolable, and the Republic of Poland ensures legal protection of life for every person, which obviously means protection of life from conception to natural death. These three articles of the Constitution form the legal, social, and moral foundation of our state order. I am convinced that all MPs, regardless of their political option, will agree to cooperate here, in the Sejm, based on these very principles - he emphasized.

I am wondering, firstly, if this will be a fair process, because I have already participated in rigged primaries. Secondly, whether it will strengthen our potential candidate. Because primaries can be conducted in a way that helped Bronisław Komorowski, or an atomic war can be waged which will weaken the victor afterwards, and that's not the point. Thirdly, I am wondering who has the greatest chance of removing notary Kaczyński from power - stated Radosław Sikorski in an interview with Łukasz Kijak on Gazeta.pl. When asked if he would be ready to participate in the presidential primaries in Civic Platform (PO), he said: - I am considering it, but they must be held according to regulations and fair play rules, where, for example, the party apparatus doesn't just play for one team, right. I am observing this.

https://twitter.com/EdytaKazikowska/status/1194251011117985792

It's almost surprising that in 30 years of the Third Polish Republic, none of the Polish leaders delivering an address or an exposé before the Sejm conceived of going down to the floor and shaking hands with MPs from left to right. Andrzej Duda's gesture will enter the canon, and perhaps the president has established a new, good parliamentary custom. Especially for those who remember Lech Wałęsa in 1995 "tripping" Aleksander Kwaśniewski, a light must have gone on when the president, in time, reflected and noticed the only former president participating in the inauguration of the 9th Sejm term, and quite zealously at that.

"Let us have faith in the spiritual and material strength of the nation." These words from the exposé of the first non-communist prime minister, Andrzej Duda, chose for his message. Liberal commentators might bristle that Andrzej Duda quoted Tadeusz Mazowiecki, a man towards whom the presidential camp had been in opposition for many years. But firstly, it's hard not to note that Prime Minister Mazowiecki was - alongside John Paul II and President Lech Kaczyński - the only symbol of recent history to which the president referred. Secondly, politicians from the opposing camp did not manage the gesture of referring to someone outside their own political comfort zone. Komorowski did not invoke Kaczyński, Tusk did not invoke Olszewski, Pawlak did not invoke Suchocka. In essence, only Aleksander Kwaśniewski, in his first parliamentary address after the SLD's victory in the 1993 elections, when he apologized for the crimes of the communists, referred to Jacek Kuroń. In this sense as well, President Duda's speech introduced a new political style to Wiejska Street.

Incidentally, the president's speech also dispelled one myth: that Andrzej Duda is afraid to take a stand against the national right. The president referred to the definition of a Pole as someone who carries Poland in their heart, regardless of origin. He spoke of war cemeteries where fallen soldiers for Poland of many faiths (including Muslims) lie side by side. Finally, the president openly stated: "Today there are very different religions. The Mosaic religion has returned to Poland." In an era of antisemitic outbursts flooding internet forums, or echoing - more quietly, but still - in the background of the Independence March, the president behaved as bravely and uncompromisingly as one could expect from the head of a common Polish state.

Finally, the electoral aspect. The president delivered, in an exceptionally intimidating situation, with the political elite of the state before him, including the biggest political rivals of the upcoming election year, a long and complex speech "from memory." Without notes and the teleprompter, increasingly popular in Polish politics. It would be difficult to expect even similar proficiency from any of his future electoral competitors sitting in the hall today.

And one last thing. The choice of Antoni Macierewicz as the marshal senior. Followers of conspiracy theories will have a tough nut to crack, whether this wasn't precisely the point, for the contrast between the two most important speeches today to be so clear.

- Lewica will not nominate a candidate for Marshal of the Sejm, but out of a sense of responsibility that opposition can be wise and reasonable, seeking agreement, dignity, respect for humans, and values, we will support Marshal Witek for the position of Marshal of the Sejm - stated Krzysztof Gawkowski during the discussion before the election of the Marshal of the Sejm.

- Lewica, which many times during the parliamentary elections spoke about wanting to be that part of the opposition that will not criticize without showing examples of how to replace the bad with the good, will also seek agreement in this term on social and welfare matters, responsibility for the state, and the feeling that democracy is not only in words but in deeds, gestures, and votes in this parliamentary chamber. We expect such cooperation from the Marshal as well - he continued.

- By voting for the Marshal today, we are giving this peculiar vote of confidence. That we can talk about Poland together, out of concern for Poland, and with the thought that together we can lead to a situation where the Polish Sejm will be called a forge of ideas, not a forge where we break democracy - the head of the Lewica club emphasized, announcing the submission of a motion to the Marshal of the Sejm to dismantle the fence around the Sejm.

During the first session of the new term of the Sejm, Members of Parliament elected Elżbieta Witek, nominated by the Law and Justice (PiS) party club, as the new Marshal of the Sejm. She was the sole candidate nominated for this position. 314 MPs voted in favor, 11 against, and 134 abstained.

- I listened with great joy to the statements of the parties, and also the caucus, although we were faced with a certain difference, and I would summarize it as follows: the end of total opposition. If this is indeed the case, it will be a truly great progress in our public life and a change that society undoubtedly awaits, a change in the interest of Polish democracy, Polish society, the nation, and the future. Therefore, I earnestly request that these not be just words, but also deeds. Here, in this chamber as well. But at the same time, these speeches also contained certain elements that cannot be agreed with, which could be described as a reprimand, a scolding. In this regard, we maintain our opinion and also another opinion, which I believe must also be stated here. The majority has the right to appoint a government, of course, a speaker, but it also has the right to govern. That is, to implement its agenda, of course, through discussion, through cultured, substantive discussion, and by accepting substantive arguments from others. And this is obvious, and what must also be mentioned is that the party with the most representatives in the higher chamber of our parliament, i.e., the Senate, is PiS. And certain conclusions must also be drawn from this. But in any case, I will not listen here to what is again being said and what reminds me of those debates. Let us hope that this will go down in history, and thank you very much for the fact that this is how the term of the Sejm begins. I hope this is not just a beginning, but simply a lasting change in our public life. Very important and good - stated Jarosław Kaczyński in the Sejm.

“This is a special day for me, but I think also for this chamber. I am immensely honored, because looking at the voting results board, I see that members from outside my club voted for me. Thank you very much for that. This is a tremendous honor, a great distinction, and a commitment for me. I have always held each of you, both in this term and in previous ones, in immense respect, because each of us is different, each of us is diverse, but there are matters that should unite us. I believe that when we realize that out of a nation of 37 million, there are 460 individuals who decide on the most important matters for the Fatherland and its citizens, then it is a great distinction to be seated here” – said Sejm Marshal Elżbieta Witek shortly after her election. 

„As Marshal of the Sejm, I will do everything to ensure each of you finds support from me when you need it. In accordance with the Rules of Procedure of the Sejm, my office door will be open to you. If there are problems, I invite you. There is no problem that cannot be solved. There are at least two ways out of every situation. We will look for the best one” - said Marshal of the Sejm Elżbieta Witek shortly after her election. 

- If I had to summarize the 4 years of the PiS government, the United Right, in one sentence, I would say this: there is no freedom without dignity. There is no freedom without dignity, and there is no freedom without credibility, because it is precisely keeping our word, credibility, that has translated into Polish families living more dignified lives today, in their work, their wages, one could also say, the state of public finances, our historical policy, our international policy - stated Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki in the Sejm.

- I think this is a good moment when we can conduct the first test of these good intentions. Especially for those in power. Since morning, we've been reading and hearing information that the majority intends to announce a break without electing the Sejm presidium, without waiting for decisions in the other chamber. If this atmosphere is so good, if we all agree that we can work in this atmosphere, then we appeal. Let's not take any break, let's just elect the Sejm presidium, as the agenda for this session foresees. Let's capitalize on this good atmosphere while it lasts - said Sławomir Nitras during the first sitting of the 9th term of the Sejm.

– In accordance with Article 162, paragraph 1 [of the Constitution], I am submitting the resignation of the Council of Ministers and I would also like to briefly summarize these 4 years of PiS government, because a great deal, a great deal of good has happened in very many areas – stated Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki in the Sejm.

- These 18.5 million [votes cast in the election] demonstrate that democracy is doing as well as, I can say, it ever has. Because what is democracy, if not the right and at the same time the belief that a cast vote counts, has significance - stated Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki in the Sejm.

- I believe it will be an important Senate. It's possible it will be a difficult Senate. There is no clear parliamentary majority here today. There are independent senators. Of course, the United Right camp, or as I prefer to call them, the United Conservatives, won the majority of seats - said President Andrzej Duda during the first session of the Senate of the 10th term.

I decided to invite Olga Tokarczuk, our Nobel laureate, to today's session, knowing that she has many very important obligations related to the Nobel Prize, and I called her because it was already too late to send an official invitation. She didn't promise anything, but asked for a moment to consider. The next day, I received an SMS from her, and I wish to read it to you: Dear Madam, I don't want to disturb you by calling on a Sunday. However, I must unfortunately inform you that I will not be able to come to Warsaw in any way. I am writing my Nobel lecture and have many other commitments here, including a trip to France. I am very sorry, I send my warmest regards and lots of good, bright energy to our Senate. With respect, Olga Tokarczuk. And I wish all our chamber this good, bright energy for the coming 4 years. Thank you for your attention - stated Senior Marshal Barbara Borys-Damięcka during the first session of the Senate of the new term.

Senatorowie niezależni, Lidia Staroń, Wadim Tyszkiewicz i Krzysztof Kwiatkowski powołujemy koło senatorów niezależnych. W ramach koła w sprawie głosowań osobowych każdy z nas będzie dokonywać wyborów zgodnie ze swoim sumieniem. W sprawach merytorycznych dot. ustaw nasze decyzje będą stanowić efekt wcześniej przeprowadzonej, wewnętrznej dyskusji w kole. Chciałbym także państwa poinformować że pracami koła pokieruje Lidia Staroń - poinformował Krzysztof Kwiatkowski na briefingu w Senacie.

- Independent senators, Lidia Staroń, Wadim Tyszkiewicz and Krzysztof Kwiatkowski, are forming a club of independent senators. Within the club, regarding individual votes, each of us will make choices according to their conscience. On substantive matters concerning legislation, our decisions will be the result of prior internal discussion within the club. I would also like to inform you that Lidia Staroń will lead the work of the club - informed Krzysztof Kwiatkowski at a briefing in the Senate.

Tomasz Grodzki has been elected the new Marshal of the Senate. He secured 51 votes. Senators voted using named ballots. In the vote, Grodzki defeated his sole opponent, Stanisław Karczewski, who received 48 votes. One senator abstained from the vote.

- This is a victory. This is a victory for democracy. But I offer this gesture at a moment of triumph, not mine, because I accept this office with great humility and a sense of responsibility – said Tomasz Grodzki after being elected Marshal of the Senate.

- We can disagree, but at the same time, we must remember that we represent, like few others, the majesty of the Republic and the power of this nation, which we must guard and protect. The Senate is the upper house of parliament. If anyone thinks we will only act as a brake on the Sejm, and in this term, we are dealing with a special situation where the Sejm is in the hands of the ruling party, and the Senate in the hands of the opposition, they are mistaken. The Senate must solely return to its role, meaning, instead of quick law, it should establish good law – added the Marshal of the Senate. 

- I would like to dedicate this vote and this decision of the Senate to President Kaczyński, who said that the total opposition has ended. I wanted to tell him that today, now, total power has ended, that we must respect the opposition, we must respect the Senate, we must respect the upper house - said Grzegorz Schetyna during a press conference after Tomasz Grodzki's election as Marshal of the Senate.

- Let me say from the outset that these rumors, that Law and Justice will not get a [Deputy Speaker] position are untrue. We will not go down that path. People expect change from us. We will provide them with that change – said Tomasz Grodzki during a press conference after his election as Marshal of the Senate.

- I wanted to say that I will propose Senator Kwiatkowski to chair an important, one of the most important committees, namely the Legislative Committee. I find it hard to imagine a situation where he would process a bill in committee and then vote against it. That seems a bit absurd to me - said Tomasz Grodzki in an interview with Grzegorz Kajdanowicz on TVN24's "Fakty po faktach".

In an evening voting session, the Sejm elected its deputy marshals. All parliamentary clubs received positions. Włodzimierz Czarzasty will represent The Left, Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska will represent Civic Coalition, Piotr Zgorzelski will represent the Polish People's Party, and Ryszard Terlecki and Małgorzata Gosiewska will represent Law and Justice. The session break will last until 5:30 PM tomorrow.

- It's good that everyone is represented in the Sejm's presidium. I don't know if this will translate into the quality of debate and whether everyone will treat each other as human beings, unlike in the previous term. When I listened to President Duda speak about the need for change, I agreed with him, but these words should primarily be directed at the political camp the President represents - said Adrian Zandberg on Kropka nad I.

"On behalf of all of us, I would like to warmly congratulate the newly elected Speaker of the Senate, Mr. Tomasz Grodzki, and to inform you all that Poland has gained a guardian of the constitution. The constitution cannot be amended without the Senate of the Republic of Poland. The nation has spoken. Marshal Grodzki did not win. We dedicate this victory in the Senate to all Poles," said Cezary Tomczyk of Civic Coalition (KO) from the Sejm's podium shortly after the election of the Senate Speaker, after which he began singing the national anthem. All MPs joined in singing the anthem.

- An opposition majority in the Senate might even benefit PiS, as it would mobilize the government for better work and greater care with legislative projects - stated PiS MP Zbigniew Girzyński on Kropka nad I.

- A very conciliatory and ecumenical address by the President. If we didn't know him from other speeches, one might think he was a calm person, which he is not. It positively contrasted with the speech of Senior Marshal Macierewicz - said Wanda Nowicka on Kropka nad I.

The Civic Platform (PO) – Kukiz'15 (KO) parliamentary club has elected Borys Budka as its new leader. This decision comes after the recent parliamentary elections, where the coalition saw a significant shift in its composition and internal dynamics.

The election of Budka, a prominent figure within the Civic Platform, signals a new direction for the opposition bloc. His leadership is expected to focus on consolidating the party's efforts and presenting a united front against the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party.

Details regarding the full leadership of the KO club and the specific strategies to be adopted under Budka's guidance are anticipated to be released in the coming days. The appointment is a key development in the evolving landscape of Polish politics, with the opposition aiming to strengthen its position and influence in the Sejm.

Here are links to related social media posts:

https://twitter.com/dariusz_jonski/status/1194335720866865153?s=12

https://twitter.com/mwielichowska/status/1194335851376975872?s=12

During a ceremony at the Presidential Palace, President Andrzej Duda accepted the resignation of the Council of Ministers and entrusted it with continuing to exercise its duties until the formation of a new government. - This was a very important time for Poland - the President assessed, expressing his conviction that, in the opinion of Poles, it was a time of good change. - I am convinced that both the Prime Minister and the ministers, the Prime Minister's collaborators, can today look Poles in the eye with their heads held high, saying: we have worked through all this time since 2015, we have worked hard, and we have achieved a great deal - said Andrzej Duda.

-- THE PRESIDENT REACHES BEYOND PIS AND ESTABLISHES NEW POLITICAL CUSTOMS - WE WRITE ON 300POLITYCE: It's almost surprising that in 30 years of the Third Polish Republic, none of the Polish leaders delivering an address or an expose before the Sejm thought to descend to the floor and shake hands with MPs from left to right. Andrzej Duda's gesture will enter the canon and perhaps the president has established a new, good parliamentary custom. Especially for those who remember Lech Wałęsa in 1995 "tripping up" Aleksander Kwaśniewski, a light must have dawned when the president, in due time, reflected and even rather zealously noticed the only former president taking part in the inauguration of the IX term of the Sejm. -- IT IS DIFFICULT TO EXPECT EVEN SIMILAR PROFICIENCY FROM TODAY'S RIVALS OF PAD: 'Finally, the electoral aspect. The president delivered, in an exceptionally nerve-wracking situation, facing the political elite of the country, including the biggest political rivals for the upcoming election year, a long and complicated speech "from memory." Without notes and the increasingly popular teleprompter in Polish politics. It would be difficult to expect even similar proficiency from any of his future electoral competitors sitting in the hall today.' https://300polityka.pl/news/2019/11/12/prezydent-siega-dalej-niz-pis-i-tworzy-nowe-polityczne-obyczaje/ -- 300POLITYKI LIVEBLOG: BUDKA HEADS THE CIVIC PLATFORM CLUB TOMCZYK ON THE PODIUM ABOUT GRODZKI AS GUARDIAN OF THE CONSTITUTION NOWICKA ON PAD'S SPEECH IN CONTRAST TO MACIEREWICZ GRODZKI COMPLIMENTS SCHETYNA AS ARCHITECT OF THE AGREEMENT https://300polityka.pl/live/2019/11/12/ ***** POLSAT NEWS -- A SPECIAL DAY FOR THE POLISH PARLIAMENT, THE FIRST SESSIONS OF THE NEW SEJM AND SENATE - announcement. -- IN AN ADDRESS LASTING OVER HALF AN HOUR, THE PRESIDENT APPEALED FOR RESPECT FOR TRADITION AND RELIGIOUS SENTIMENTS, AND ASKED FOR A DECENT DEBATE - Dariusz Ociepa. -- THE SPEECH WAS LOUDLY APPLAUDED IN THE PIS ROWS AND SELECTIVELY AND HESITANTLY IN THE OPPOSITION ROWS - Ociepa continues. -- FRAGMENTS OF ANTONI MACIEREWICZ'S SPEECH. -- THE ELECTION OF THE SEJM MARSHAL PROCEEDED SMOOTHLY, ELŻBIETA WITEK WAS THE SOLE CANDIDATE - Ociepa. -- PRIME MINISTER MORAWIECKI, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONSTITUTION, SUBMITTED THE GOVERNMENT'S RESIGNATION - Ociepa continues. -- AS WE HEARD FROM ONE OF THE MINISTERS, THE PRIME MINISTER MAY BE NOMINATED TOMORROW, AND THE GOVERNMENT SWORN IN ON THURSDAY - Ociepa continues. -- THE PRIME MINISTER WILL DELIVER THE EXPOSE ON FRIDAY OR TUESDAY - Ociepa. -- THE FATES OF THE SENATE MAJORITY ARE BEING DECIDED IN THE SENATE - Ociepa continues. -- LOSING THE MARSHAL, AND CONSEQUENTLY CONTROL OVER THE SENATE, WOULD BE A PAINFUL BLOW FOR PIS - Wojciech Dąbrowski. -- FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 28 YEARS, THE GROUP FORMING THE GOVERNMENT WOULD NOT HAVE A MAJORITY IN THE UPPER HOUSE - Dąbrowski continues. -- FOR THE PRESIDENT, WHO OPENED THE SENATE SESSION, THIS IS, HOWEVER, AN OPPORTUNITY TO ESTABLISH COOPERATION - Dąbrowski. -- TOMASZ GRODZKI ELECTED MARSHAL OF THE SENATE. ***** TVN FAKTY -- NUMEROUS, SOLEMN, AND MORE UNIFIED THAN EVER IN RECENT YEARS. THE 9TH TERM SEJM HAS BEGUN ITS WORK - announcement: Jarosław Kaczyński announces the end of the total opposition. The president tries to unite, and only in the senior marshal, no change regarding current agents and the menacing gender. -- IN THE PRESIDENT'S SPEECH, IT WAS DIFFICULT NOT TO HEAR CAMPAIGN TONES AND GESTURES AIMED AT VOTERS WHO ARE NOT NECESSARILY PIS SUPPORTERS - Krzysztof Skórzyński. -- DUDA KNOWS PERFECTLY WELL THAT TO EVEN CONSIDER A SECOND TERM, HE NEEDS NOT ONLY PIS VOTERS. THAT IS WHY HE CONCLUDED HIS SPEECH WITH AN APPEAL FOR HANDSHAKES - Skórzyński. -- UP TO THAT POINT, PAD COULD COUNT ON THE PLAN TO CREATE A CALM ATMOSPHERE SUCCEEDING. UNTIL THE SECOND SPEECH, WHICH WAS ENTIRELY DIFFERENT - IN FORM, IN MESSAGE - Skórzyński. -- IT IS DIFFICULT TO SAY WHICH SPEECH WAS CLOSER TO THE PIS POLITICIANS. THEY REACTED SIMILARLY TO BOTH - Skórzyński. -- THE GOVERNMENT WAS DISMISSED AT 4 PM - Skórzyński: An almost identical one will be appointed soon. -- THE PRIME MINISTER HAS ALREADY STARTED DELIVERING HIS EXPOSE TODAY - Skórzyński. -- THE OVERLY LONG SPEECH BY THE PRIME MINISTER, NOT EVEN LISTENED TO TO THE END BY THE PRESIDENT, WAS INTERRUPTED BY THE SEJM MARSHAL - Skórzyński. -- THE ELECTION OF ELŻBIETA WITEK WAS A TEMPORARY, BUT REAL AGREEMENT ACROSS MANY DIVISIONS - Skórzyński. -- THE ENTIRE OPPOSITION RECOGNIZED THE CUSTOM AND TRADITION THAT THOSE WHO HAVE THE MAJORITY HAVE THEIR MARSHAL - Skórzyński. -- TOMASZ GRODZKI ELECTED MARSHAL OF THE SENATE - announcement. -- GRODZKI RECEIVED VOTES FROM ALL OPPOSITION SENATORS AND THREE INDEPENDENTS - Katarzyna Kolenda-Zaleska in her report from the Senate. -- PAD ALSO CONGRATULATED GRODZKI, WAITING IN THE SENATE FOR THE VOTE COUNT - Kolenda-Zaleska. -- INDEPENDENT SENATORS HAVE FORMED A COALITION AND ARE ALSO DEMANDING A DEPUTY MARSHAL - Kolenda-Zaleska. -- THERE HAS NOT BEEN SUCH TENSION BEFORE A SENATE SESSION IN THE ENTIRE 30-YEAR HISTORY - Kolenda-Zaleska. -- THE INAUGURATION OF THE SESSION AND THE SWEARING-IN WENT SMOOTHLY AND EFFICIENTLY - Kolenda-Zaleska. -- PIS DEMANDS TWO DEPUTY MARSHALS IN THE SENATE - Kolenda-Zaleska. -- THE CHAIRMAN REMAINED SILENT, MARSHAL KARCZEWSKI DID NOT WANT TO TALK ABOUT THE WORK IN THE NEW SENATE TERM - Maciej Knapik. ***** TVP WIADOMOŚCI -- WITEK ELECTED WITH A RECORD NUMBER OF VOTES - in the preview. -- PAD'S SPEECH IS ALREADY BEING CALLED BREAKTHROUGH BY MANY - Maksymilian Maszenda. -- IN THE CONTEXT OF THE PREVIOUS TERM, KO'S ABSTENTION MAY BE SURPRISING - Maszenda. -- SPARKS ARE FLYING IN THE OPPOSITION CAMP - banner. -- ZDROJEWSKI WILL COMPETE FOR THE HEAD OF CIVIC PLATFORM, MUCHA, ASSOCIATED WITH THE YOUNG FACTION, IS ALSO CONSIDERING A RUN - in the preview. -- SCHETYNA IS TRYING TO ORGANIZE THE SITUATION IN CIVIC PLATFORM AND MAINTAIN LEADERSHIP - Marcin Szypszak. -- THE LOST ELECTIONS HAVE DAMAGED SCHETYNA'S POSITION, WHOM ONLY A SMALL PERCENTAGE OF VOTERS TRUST - Szypszak. -- THE PEASANT PARTY IS TRYING TO EXPLOIT CIVIC PLATFORM'S PROBLEMS - Szypszak. -- IT MAY BE DIFFICULT FOR THE OPPOSITION TO SELECT A CANDIDATE WHO WOULD BE A REAL THREAT TO PAD - Szypszak. -- NEVER IN HISTORY HAVE WE BEEN SO PROTECTED AS WE ARE NOW, ALLIED ARMIES ARE STATIONED ON OUR TERRITORY AND THE POLISH ARMY IS GAINING STRENGTH - preview for a material about nominations. -- THE END OF CONTEMPT FOR POLISHNESS - banner. -- IN THE PAST, THEY WERE RIDICULED - in the preview. -- PRIDE IN POLISHNESS, POLES FELT IT WAS WORTH MANIFESTING - Konrad Wąż. -- FOR YEARS, POLISH PSEUDO-ELITES PROMOTED THE THESIS LIKE DONALD TUSK THAT POLISHNESS IS ABNORMALITY; IT WAS THE HALLMARK OF THE THIRD REPUBLIC ELITES, POLAND SHOULD HAVE BEEN ASHAMED OF - Wąż. -- SUTRYK BLAMED THE RESIDENTS OF WROCŁAW FOR THE CRYSTAL NIGHT, FOR WHICH POLES BORNE NO RESPONSIBILITY - Wąż. -- THESE SAME ELITES READILY PAID HOMAGE TO COMMUNIST DIGNITARIES - -- DURING SIEMONIATOWSKI'S TIME, THE ARMY PROVIDED HONORARY ASSISTANCE AT THE FUNERAL OF INKA'S EXECUTIONER - Wąż. -- SCHEURING TRIED TO BLOCK THE INDEPENDENCE MARCH AND GAZETA WYBORCZA WRITES ABOUT NATIONALISTIC SMOG FROM RAC - Wąż.

During evening votes, the Senate, in accordance with its regulations, elected four deputy speakers: Bogdan Borusewicz, Michał Kamiński, Stanisław Karczewski, and Gabriela Morawska-Stanecka.