- Currently, we have approximately 16,000 beds prepared for coronavirus patients. Of these, just over 2,000 people are hospitalized, and regarding respirator connections, I'm referring to data from recent days, as I admit I don't recall yesterday's figures, but in recent days it was around 300 people. Consequently, we are in a relatively good situation. Nevertheless, we constantly bear in mind that this is an epidemic, it is an unknown disease - said Michał Dworczyk in an interview with Eliza Olczyk on Polskie Radio 24.

- I don't take such statements seriously: oh, let's introduce one of the states of emergency and then drag it out as long as someone imagines. A year, or six months, or a year and a half. Let's be serious. The Constitution precisely describes the situations in which a state of emergency can be introduced. Today, there are no grounds for introducing a state of emergency - said Michał Dworczyk in an interview with Eliza Olczyk on Polish Radio 24.

I hope there won't be elections in May, normal ones almost certainly not, because it's simply impossible and the government itself probably agrees that these elections would violate security concerns and endanger the health of Poles. However, I think that the issue or project of mail-in voting is also very much in question. Now, of course, the question is whether Poles should participate in this type of election, which is ultimately a farce of democracy. Where there will be infected envelopes that will likely not reach all voters, where the votes will likely be counted by PiS notables - said Rafał Trzaskowski in an interview with Piotr Witwicki on Polsat News' "Graffiti".

- Indeed, these preparations are already underway, and not based on my decision, as the journalist introducing our conversation was pleased to say. It would be good for such a respected station as TVN to provide truthful information, not fake news. This is happening primarily based on the decision of the Marshal of the Sejm, who set the presidential election date, in accordance with the Constitution, for May 10, and based on the Prime Minister's decision, issued under the anti-COVID law, which indeed ordered state-owned companies like PWPW and Poczta Polska to prepare for these elections so that they could be held by correspondence - stated Jacek Sasin in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

- Yes, [PWPW] is already printing [the ballots]. Indeed, this is true. It is precisely by virtue of this decision I just mentioned that the printing of ballots has commenced. The printing of ballots, the design of which was determined by the PKW back in February of this year. The PKW's role has been preserved here, and it is the PKW and KBW that are the institutions conducting these elections. The fact that the operator is the postal service, which I do indeed oversee, and that other state institutions are involved, is also normal, because someone has always printed and delivered these ballots. This is also happening this time. The difference is that instead of delivering them to polling stations, they will be delivered to voters, whereas here the roles of independent bodies in counting votes and appointing commissions have been completely preserved. Therefore, I wanted to refute in this way the information appearing that the government, or the Ministry of State Assets, or myself, or any other government official, is conducting these elections - he continued.

At the moment when the provisions of this act, which unfortunately has been lying in the Senate for a long time now, come into force, then of course such a regulation will have to be issued by the Minister of State Assets, which will confirm this [ballot] design. However, it is a pity that we cannot, under normal circumstances, that the opposition in the Senate is blocking these provisions, this act [on postal voting], which is good for Poles today, ensures safe voting, because indeed everything would be simpler if not for the obstruction from the opposition. Poles could calmly prepare for the elections, knowing on what basis these elections will be conducted, and so we are actually in a bit of trouble. On the one hand, we have the election deadline, it applies to everyone, it has been announced by the Marshal of the Sejm, and we as a state must prepare for these elections – stated Jacek Sasin in a conversation with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

- The Prime Minister clearly stated that regarding the loosening of the spending rule, the government will accommodate us. He spoke about a special investment fund from which local governments could benefit, though of course, the question is how much of a real fund with real money it will be, because recently the government planned a new fund for roads. It turned out to be old money, and that fund would not cover the largest cities. Therefore, I would like to take what the government says at face value and believe there will indeed be a cash injection, and that money will also appear, for example, from the European Union. However, regarding the [suspension of] "Janosikowe", the Prime Minister did not react positively, but we will continue to push - said Rafał Trzaskowski in an interview with Piotr Witwicki on Polsat News' "Graffiti".

- Of course, you are right that the Senate has not exceeded the law, as it can indeed hold onto a bill passed by the Sejm for a month, but it is exceeding its mission, and that mission is to ensure Poles' security in the upcoming elections - stated Jacek Sasin in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

– These were considerations. We haven't made a decision regarding a boycott. However, as for the campaign itself, only Andrzej Duda could have conducted it. The decision has not yet been made; we discussed the matter. I understand that various scenarios are being considered, and I also understand that Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska might lean towards that option if these elections turn out as they are shaping up to be. That is, they will be elections that lacked democratic oversight – said Rafał Trzaskowski in an interview with Piotr Witwicki on Polsat News's "Graffiti".

- I believe that the most important thing is what is written in the Constitution, that elections are to be held within a specified timeframe. And today, all those who are calling for these elections not to be held on time are, in fact, calling to break the Constitution. We have taken action, we have taken this action to enable Poles to exercise their constitutional right to choose the head of state, while also ensuring their safety. We could have not done this, as you suggest, and then these elections would indeed have taken place in a manner that would truly expose millions of Poles to the danger of coronavirus infection. We acted responsibly, and the Senate and Marshal Grodzki lack this responsible behavior. For their party's interest, they want to disrupt the state. We cannot agree to this - stated Jacek Sasin in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

If this law [on postal voting] comes into effect, I assume this after the Senate's veto, because that's what can be inferred from the opposition politicians' statements, although of course, it cannot be predetermined, it is indeed a mechanism giving the Marshal the right to postpone the elections by a week de facto, and with some convoluted interpretation, perhaps by a few more days, but I do not assume that such actions will be taken. Elections are scheduled for 10 [May], this date binds us today. We are preparing for this date, however, I want to state clearly: there is no constitutional possibility, a possibility consistent with the Constitution, to postpone these elections to a later date. That would have to involve changing the Constitution – stated Jacek Sasin in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

„In the case of nurseries, it's difficult to speak of anything more than childcare. For kindergartens, it will likely be mainly in the form of care and educational activities, but no one will prevent teachers from introducing didactic elements. The main goal is to enable care for younger children so that parents, who until now have not been going to work for several weeks due to childcare, can return to their jobs” - said Minister Dariusz Piontkowski on Polskie Radio Jedynka.

- The act, which I hope will be passed, states that 7 days before the election, the post office will deliver electoral packages to voters, and that's exactly how we intend to proceed. That's why we need to start this operation earlier to have enough time. The post office is operating based on Prime Minister Morawiecki's decision, which he issued based on the COVID act, granting him such a possibility. All parties in parliament, including the opposition, voted for this act and these regulations. These provisions give the Prime Minister the ability to issue such decisions – stated Jacek Sasin in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

- The Constitution requires us to hold the elections in May. The Marshal of the Sejm, guided by the Constitution's directives, announced these elections for May 10th, and all state institutions must respect this fact, as we stand on the ground of law and the Constitution. We are legalists and must respect and fulfill the constitutional requirements of democracy. Hence, we have taken this action, and based on this assumption, the Prime Minister issued a decision ordering the post office to undertake all actions to enable the holding of these elections by correspondence, as this is the only safe way for Poles today – the Deputy Prime Minister continued.

"My recommendations are strictly medical recommendations. They have nothing to do with the political interests of any political group, really. If we want safe elections, if we care about safety, it is obvious that the only date that is completely free of all the risks we have today is in two years when we will have a vaccine, medications. I didn't really see anyone refer to this main part of my recommendations, although I didn't have much time to review various statements about myself, because I was busy with tests, so that there would be more of them. I did not say when elections can or cannot be. I only said that if the opposition does not think that a safe form in two years is good, and yet they often talk about safety, then the only form I see in times of epidemic is postal voting. Period. From a medical point of view, from a scientific point of view, there is no better or worse date" - said Minister Łukasz Szumowski on Jedynka radio.

- I think that after what we heard today from Minister Sasin, all [presidential] candidates must consider if this makes any sense at all, because this is some kind of farce, not an election - stated Sławomir Nitras in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

– Minister Sasin, who moreover has no statutory procedure to conduct elections, effectively informed the public through your program today that he has committed a crime against the elections. I would like to remind you that a state official must act within the bounds of the law. He has no authority whatsoever to do so, yet he announced that he had printed ballot papers for us. Article 248 of the Penal Code states: anyone who uses deceit with the aim of unlawfully creating a ballot paper, an electoral roll, is subject to a penalty of up to 3 years, and today Mr. Sasin effectively informed us that he has committed a crime – stated Sławomir Nitras in conversation with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

- We learn from television, thanks to you [journalists], how it's supposed to look [elections]. Or we learn from Mr. Bielen, who is the spokesperson for Mr. Duda's campaign team, or from Mr. Sasin, who in the past was the head of PiS's campaign team. We don't learn how the elections are supposed to proceed from the National Electoral Commission (PKW). I dare say that even the PKW learns from Mr. Bielen, and later from Mr. Sasin, how these elections are supposed to look - stated Sławomir Nitras in a conversation with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

- He [Jacek Sasin] didn't really inform us today, through you, the entire Poland, that he is printing ballots. He informed us that he is printing elections. Just as in the 90s, matches were 'printed' in Poland, the outcome of which we knew before stepping onto the field. That's the message PiS conveyed to us today - stated Sławomir Nitras in an interview with Konrad Piasecki on TVN24's "Rozmowa Piaseckiego".

Of course, it was cancelled [Andrzej Duda's program convention]. That convention was cancelled due to the restrictions that were introduced, due to the situation we are facing. It is completely obvious that it had to be cancelled. However, the program is under development. Also, I think that the best person to address such questions to is Prime Minister Szydło, who is the head of Andrzej Duda's program staff. I think this question should be directed to the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is the head of the President's program staff. I can assure you from my side that you will calmly and with full certainty get to know this program very soon – stated Błażej Spychalski in a conversation with Jacek Prusinowski on Radio Plus.

- Please listen carefully to the President's statement again, because the answer to your question is there. Of course, the President said that if the situation were tense, then he might appeal, but for today, social programs are functioning well, normally. Hence also the President's meeting with Minister Maląg, which took place yesterday. The Minister also confirmed that all our major social programs are functioning without disruption - stated Błażej Spychalski in an interview with Jacek Prusinowski on Radio Plus.

- If someone runs in the presidential election, it's not to fear anyone. So, I can answer your question [whether they fear the leader of PSL] that way. I remind you that 5 years ago, in 2015, many experts, connoisseurs, or quasi-connoisseurs of public and political life in Poland claimed that Bronisław Komorowski would win the presidential election without the slightest trouble, and that he would win it decisively in the first round. He lost the election. I don't want to speculate on this topic [whether Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz will be a tougher opponent than Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska]. I'll say this: we have immense respect for the decisions of Poles. We approach every decision by Poles with full humility, and these are decisions made by the entirety of our citizens. So, I can answer your question that way - stated Błażej Spychalski in an interview with Jacek Prusinowski on Radio Plus.

- We are a democratic rule-of-law state. I have no doubts about it. If someone tries to claim otherwise, it means they are out of their mind. Of course, the elections that will take place in May will be fully democratic, secret, universal, but above all, safe. I have no doubts about that - stated Błażej Spychalski in an interview with Jacek Prusinowski on Radio Plus.

https://twitter.com/MZ_GOV_PL/status/1252869916924899329

https://twitter.com/MZ_GOV_PL/status/1252869920653627394

“Messrs. [Prime Minister Morawiecki and Deputy Prime Minister Sasin] are stubbornly pursuing the abolition of free elections in Poland with the persistence worthy of Soviet pioneers who consolidated communist power. They are striving to conduct elections by mail, illegally, wastefully, against logic, against doctors, and above all, against Poles. They are trying to force the organization of elections that Poles do not want, solely so that their colleague, a party comrade, can continue to hold office. This is a grand deception. This will be one grand deception that will have nothing in common with the free elections for which Poles died, for which workers and intellectuals fought for years, who for years in the Polish People's Republic demanded free elections, and this government is orchestrating a huge farce, abolishing free elections” – said Robert Kropiwnicki from the Civic Coalition at a press conference in the Sejm.



“In connection with the recent actions of PiS, and particularly the issuance of unlawful decisions by Prime Minister Morawiecki and Minister Sasin, which order the Polish Post to prepare for the conduct of mail-in elections, and the Polish Security Printing Works to print approximately 30 million ballots and declarations, we are submitting a request to the Supreme Audit Office to investigate the legality of actions burdening public finances undertaken by the Prime Minister's Office, the Ministry of State Assets, and both mentioned state-owned companies. We are in the process of preparing a request to the prosecutor's office in this matter” – added Kamila Gasiuk-Pihowicz from the Civic Coalition.

"We are observing a global rise in temperature over the past few years, and talk of increasing desertification in more and more areas of our planet. However, we too are seeing increasingly long, difficult, and dangerous periods of drought for our agriculture in our country. And this is what we discussed with the ministers. The level of rainfall we are recording this year, as well as an almost snowless winter, mean that the first signs of drought are already visible in Poland. This is primarily dangerous for our agriculture, for our food economy, for the farmers who ensure our food security, especially in such a difficult time as the crisis period we are currently experiencing. This is of extremely significant importance. It also has general significance for the Polish economy. It is also important for all other areas of our lives, because we know that water is simply needed for the normal, daily functioning of households, for industry, our economy, and of course for recreation, but above all it is needed to produce food for us, so that Polish farmers can manage effectively," stated President Andrzej Duda at a press briefing.

- I asked Minister Jan Krzysztof Ardanowski about the issue we discussed last year, namely the matter of compensation for losses incurred by farmers due to last year's drought. Unfortunately, I learned that there is still a group of farmers, a group of farms, that have not yet received this compensation. Compensation was paid to approximately 90% of farms, farmers for whom these compensation payments were established, meaning losses related to the drought. 90% of farmers received these compensation funds, but 10% still have not. I asked about the readiness of the Agency for Restructuring and Modernisation of Agriculture to disburse these funds. The Minister assured me that the technical capabilities to disburse these funds exist practically immediately, within a week. The only question is whether there will be funds available to be disbursed. From this place, I want to very decisively appeal to the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers to simply make these funds available. Because resolving last year's matters, with the new agricultural season effectively beginning now, is an absolutely fundamental issue - said President Andrzej Duda during a press briefing.

- Today, Minister Sasin, on behalf of the Polish state and the Polish government, stated that he would break the law. Anyone who unlawfully prints voting ballots will be a criminal in Poland. This is what Polish law and the Polish Constitution stipulate. State authorities can only act within the limits and on the basis of the law. Today, we want to state clearly that we will file a report with the prosecutor's office in this matter, in connection with an electoral offense. What is happening before our eyes is simply a farce. What the government has allowed to happen is simply a farce. This whole procedure, which Jacek Sasin calls voting, is simply a farce. Today, in connection with Article 248 of the Penal Code, we are filing a report on the possibility of Vice-Prime Minister Sasin committing an offense in connection with an electoral offense - stated Cezary Tomczyk at a press briefing.

- Today, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Polish government says it directly: I will break the law. This is an unprecedented situation, but it also illustrates where we are as a country. This is also the moment when it should be clearly stated that all opposition parties should, in unison, first and foremost, do everything to ensure these elections take place at a safe time and in a safe manner - he continued.

- The act, which Mr. Sasin referred to today, on the basis of which Prime Minister Morawiecki ordered the printing of ballot papers, contains not a single word about how the elections are to be organized. And the act that was adopted not long ago in blatant violation of the law, I am referring here to postal elections, is a non-binding legal instrument, as it has not yet been adopted by the Polish Senate and Sejm. In violation of Polish law, the most important people in PiS are preparing an electoral process. It will not be an election. It will be a postal service. Nothing more - stated Marcin Kierwiński at a press briefing.

- We will also file a notification of a potential crime by Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. We are aware that the prosecutor's office is run by PiS politicians, but we will not drop this matter. This is an issue that, if swept under the rug now, like many similar ones, will return. It will return when Prime Minister Morawiecki is no longer Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister Sasin is no longer Deputy Prime Minister - stated Marcin Kierwiński at a press briefing.

- Since we're talking frankly, I also have a question for you. When will TVP Info address President Duda's strange words about appealing for people to return their 500+? Does this mean the PiS government and President Duda are backing out of the 500+ program? Because I haven't noticed, perhaps you overlooked it, which is why I'm suggesting you look into this matter, as you are always eager to cover such issues – stated Marcin Kierwiński at a press briefing.

“The Senate is neither hindering, blocking, nor delaying work on the bill concerning the postal voting procedure. On the contrary, we are undertaking exceptionally intensive work that was simply not done in the Sejm. Expert opinions are currently starting to arrive” - said Marshal of the Senate Tomasz Grodzki at a press conference.

“On Monday, we invited experts to a teleconference or to attend in person, while adhering to all requirements, to hear from those who will be implementing this, the ordinary postal workers, who have a multitude of questions. We want to know if it is possible to print 60 million envelopes and count them within a few hours at the polling stations. We will continue consultations and hearings until senators make a final decision. I categorically deny any claims that we are delaying anything. We will make every effort to present the most thoughtful, discussed, and best opinion, which will serve our nation, within the constitutional 30-day period, and we will send such an opinion to the Sejm” - he added.

“The Senate is deeply concerned and surprised by the situation where the printing of ballot papers began without any legal basis. The bill is still in the legislative process, it is still in the Senate, and it is undergoing consultations. There is no legal basis on which the provisions of this bill could be implemented in a project at this time. Any order for actions that incurs financial consequences without a legal basis is a violation of public finance discipline” - said Deputy Marshal Gabriela Morawska-Stanecka from Lewica.

“We want to show Poles, by asking the Polish Post and officials questions, how these elections are to be conducted, how the health of Poles is to be guaranteed, although there are very serious doubts in this regard, and on the other hand, how to ensure the effective delivery of ballot papers, effective voting, and an honest count of these votes” - added Deputy Marshal Michał Kamiński from Koalicja Polska.

Currently, Poland is experiencing all four types of drought simultaneously. Meteorological, hydrological, hydrogeological, and agricultural drought. Do you know how much food prices will jump by the end of this year, when we do nothing to address it systematically? In a state where Wody Polskie spends PLN 380 million annually on small retention projects, and television and public media receive PLN 2 billion for propaganda. Here water, and there poison – stated Szymon Hołownia during a press conference. 

The working meeting between the Prime Minister's Office and Minister Ardanowski has concluded. A few days ago, a decision was signed approving further financial measures for farmers who have suffered damages due to drought. The Minister of Agriculture has initiated the prompt disbursement of these funds.

https://twitter.com/PiotrMuller/status/1252923589017440256

„The legality of holding elections is decided by the Polish constitution, which determined that the term of office of every president can only be within 5 years. It is hard to imagine a state without a president. If elections were not held, the president could not play a role in the legislative process. It is great irresponsibility to lead to unconstitutional visions that would suspend such an important institution as the presidency” - said Minister Zbigniew Ziobro at a press conference.

“I didn’t bet on electoral law, but I bet… Everyone has the right, if they have doubts, to file a notification with state authorities. I have full trust in Prime Minister Sasin and realize that we are all in an extraordinary situation, which requires fulfilling the duties imposed on the Polish state by the extraordinary nature of the situation and legal regulations” – said Minister Zbigniew Ziobro at a press conference.

I called on the government to pay compensation for last year's drought. A few weeks ago, I pointed out that the anti-crisis shield makes no mention of support for farmers. After those conferences, President Duda reacted. After yesterday's conference, he also calls on the Prime Minister today to pay compensation to farmers for the 2019 drought. It turns out that if it weren't for my press conferences, for what we say, for our positions, President Duda would have no clue about what's happening, especially in the area of food security and agriculture. It's good that he is reacting. It's a shame that the opposition, an opposition candidate, has to inform the president, who should have access to all possible data, has the entire apparatus, a large chancellery, millions are spent on this chancellery, and is unable to react in advance. Today, we need clear actions from the rulers, support for farmers, small-scale retention, payout of compensation, and reallocation of European funds, so that we can fight both coronavirus and another natural disaster - stated Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz at a press briefing.

- High school graduates, students, and their parents expect a clear date for when these exams will take place. Not to be told three weeks before the matura exams when the matura will be held. Today it is evident that it is impossible to conduct the matura exams, and all that was planned for the school year, in a safe manner. We expect the immediate announcement of the date when these exams will be held. Postponed, preferably to autumn, and a clear indication of what high school graduates should do to prepare for starting university later, what higher education institutions should do, and what about admissions – stated Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz at a press briefing.

- Two weeks have passed and there is nothing on this matter, there is no draft bill presented, there is no next installment of the anti-crisis shield. Without a liquidity fund, there is effectively no anti-crisis shield, despite the adoption of two acts. So, Mr. Prime Minister, we expect the liquidity fund in the Sejm as soon as possible. If you are unable to formulate these assumptions and present such a project, we will gladly help. We have a draft bill prepared, we can use it, cooperate, and discuss this matter - stated Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz at a press briefing.

„I said that it is very important to establish a Climate Council precisely so that there can be discussions with experts, scientists, and organizations dealing with this issue, under the President. This is so that politicians listen to specialists, and do not just impose solutions, because the last few years, with tree felling and river regulation, have shown what catastrophic situations this can lead to” – said Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska, Deputy Marshal and Civic Coalition candidate for president, during an ecological debate hosted by RMF FM, Gazeta.pl, and Onet.

- I think I'm the only candidate who plans and announces the appointment of a commissioner for the protection of animal rights. We must also take care of this dimension of our ethical relationship with the nature that surrounds us - said presidential candidate Szymon Hołownia during an ecological debate hosted by RMF FM, Gazeta.pl, and Onet.

By 2030, 50% of energy should come from renewable sources. This is an ambitious, but achievable plan. Let's focus particularly on solar energy. Let's start mining the sun, not a kilometer underground. The second issue is small-scale water retention. For agriculture, for industry, for municipal services, so that we simply have water, and not, as in Skierniewice a year ago when there was a drought and there was no water in the taps. Today we are talking while the Biebrza National Park is burning. Thank you for all these calls, I sign them. Yes, we must help. Thank you to the volunteer firefighters. We are talking at a time when the water level of the Vistula River in Warsaw is 60 cm. A year ago, during the drought, it was 90 cm. We are talking at a time when Poland's water resources are lower than some of the lowest in Europe per capita. Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, and Malta have less. The rest of the countries have more water. The third issue is food. Zero VAT on healthy food. Also, access to water for farmers. Exemption from subsidies and the possibility of building small retention reservoirs. And the fight against smog. An extremely important matter, as 45,000 of our compatriots die annually due to environmental pollution. Replacement of furnaces, replacement of 'smokers' (old, inefficient stoves), 75% co-financing for everyone, and 100% for those who meet the income criteria. These are the four most important points that I will elaborate on. I am not surprised that Andrzej Duda is not with us, because he is having doubts about whether humans have an impact on climate change – said Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz during a debate hosted by Onet, RMF, and Gazeta.pl. 

- There is a necessity to move away from coal. We must move away from it precisely out of responsibility for future generations, and this is not a program for one term, or two, it is a program for many, many years. I agree that we should begin this process of moving away from coal here and now. I believe the first stage, by 2030, should see the end of heating and the use of coal in homes, and by 2035, heating from boiler rooms should also cease. There are funds and EU support for this, and we should utilize it. We face a great challenge precisely to carry out this energy transformation - said Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska, a presidential candidate, during an ecological debate organized by RMF FM, Gazeta.pl, and Onet. - Miners - I agree with Mr. Hołownia - are waiting for interesting proposals, because they realize that the world is changing and they can find other, very interesting and well-paid jobs, but this needs to be prepared over time. We must focus on RES (Renewable Energy Sources); indeed, we have significant delays here. We should focus on citizen energy, distributed energy, and it will indeed be cheaper, citizens will feel it, it will be safer, and we will be able to say that we have introduced a mechanism for our country's development. Because if the government wants to base our energy on coal, with poor-quality Polish coal lying on heaps, and Russian coal being imported, with large ships arriving and bringing coal from overseas countries, this is creating an illusion. We must, right now, shift our energy sector to modern energy sources, to renewable energy, and in truth, one can say that the Polish government is poisoning Polish children with Russian coal based on Polish coal, because the poorer quality Polish coal stays on heaps. We are deceiving society, the miners, who realize that their work is not being utilized as they would wish, so they are waiting for wise, thoughtful decisions - she continued.

- I believe it is a sign of realism for any presidential candidate to tell our listeners the truth, that it is not possible, within the foreseeable future, for the economy to abandon coal with the help of any legislation. Energy is transformed not by laws, but by enormous investment sums, running into tens of billions of zlotys. The only realistic alternative, currently supplying industry with energy, to coal-fired power generation, is nuclear energy - said Krzysztof Bosak during a debate hosted by Onet, RMF, and Gazeta.pl.

„I don't get the impression that any government in recent years has truly shown it cares about saving water. These neglects are years-long, and a bold decision is needed. I appeal – help local governments implement good ideas, because little has been done in recent years” – said Robert Biedroń, the Left's presidential candidate, during an ecological debate hosted by RMF FM, Gazeta.pl, and Onet. 

„We hardly use rivers at all in transport policy. In the center of Warsaw, our capital, the river is so wild that beavers live under the Poniatowski Bridge. Let's not fool ourselves. The problem is not concreting rivers in Poland, although no one in Poland is undertaking this process” – said Krzysztof Bosak, a candidate for the Confederation, during an ecological debate on RMF FM, Gazeta.pl, and Onet. 

On April 22, 2020, a videoconference of the Visegrád Group leaders took place, with the participation of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Poland, Mateusz Morawiecki.

The meeting, held remotely due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, focused on current challenges and cooperation within the V4 framework. Discussions likely revolved around the economic impact of the pandemic, coordinated responses to public health measures, and potential joint initiatives for recovery and future resilience.

Further details and outcomes of the videoconference can be found at the following link:

https://twitter.com/PremierRP/status/1252956446666489856

- The funds we allocated last year to combat drought were absolutely record-breaking and should have covered all farmers who experienced the effects of this phenomenon. Naturally, if such a situation arises, the Prime Minister does not rely on any information other than what he receives firsthand from members of his own government. Hence the immediate reaction and call from the Minister of Agriculture, who will certainly highlight the circumstances that led to some applications perhaps not being justified or, for other reasons independent of the ministry, could not be implemented - said Artur Soboń in an interview with Adrian Klarenbach on Polish Radio 24. 

It seems an important climate debate took place today with candidates participating. Of course, Poles, in these difficult circumstances, not as we would wish, and especially us, organizing President Andrzej Duda's campaign, would like as many direct meetings as possible. However, attention is focused on these meetings, whether online or through the media, as well as on the declarations and political announcements that the candidates are making. In this way, Poles are forming an opinion on who they would like to see in the office of head of state for another term - said Artur Soboń in a conversation with Adrian Klarenbach on Polskie Radio 24.

https://twitter.com/MZ_GOV_PL/status/1252983090756157442

https://twitter.com/MZ_GOV_PL/status/1252983093025259521

- We don't see the Civic Platform as direct competition. After all, for many years we called for defending democracy together. I cannot stand seeing Borys Budka shake hands with Jarosław Gowin today, who has been trampling the constitution in recent years - said Robert Biedroń in an interview with Dorota Gawryluk on the program "Gość Wydarzeń" on Polsat News.

- We know that these elections are taking place today, and PiS is pushing forward towards these elections, feeling that they can push Andrzej Duda through with their knee. But let's not allow that. I appeal to all people who want change, who want a different Poland than the one offered to them by Andrzej Duda and PiS, to go and vote. I, unlike other opposition candidates, have always firmly said that I will fight, that I will not raise the white flag, and I appeal for full mobilization – said Robert Biedroń in an interview with Dorota Gawryluk on the program "Gość Wydarzeń" on Polsat News.

- Of course, there are risks, but there are also methods to minimize them. Let's consider how to minimize them, because Jarosław Kaczyński is truly determined to win these elections. Why should we let him win these elections? Today is a chance that may not come again so soon - said Robert Biedroń in an interview with Dorota Gawryluk on the program “Gość Wydarzeń” (Guest of Events) on Polsat News.

- The Left is growing stronger, and this is an opportunity for the left-wing electorate to mobilize. We once had a great president, Alexander Kwaśniewski. I would like to be Alexander Kwaśniewski 2.0. Alexander Kwaśniewski gave us the constitution. I would like to start implementing it. From the first to the last article - said Robert Biedroń in an interview with Dorota Gawryluk on the program 'Gość Wydarzeń' on Polsat News.

- This is unprecedented [Jacek Sasin's words] because there is currently no legal basis that would allow for postal elections to be carried out. However, normal, regular elections on May 10th cannot be organized, and the government itself is aware of this. We actually asked the Prime Minister about this during the meeting, a videoconference with local government officials. The Prime Minister confirmed that these regular elections on May 10th will not happen, so the only possibility is postal elections, and the law for that does not currently exist – stated Rafał Trzaskowski in an interview with Anita Werner on TVN24's “Fakty po faktach” (Facts after the Facts).

- This is the problem, that today there is no legal basis to print ballot papers and prepare for postal elections – the Mayor of Warsaw continued. – All lawyers and constitutionalists agree that regarding the regular elections on May 10th, due to the fact that the possibility of organizing these elections by the National Electoral Commission (PKW) has been taken away, they cannot take place on that normal basis. However, there is no legal basis yet, because this law has not been passed, it is currently in the Senate, to organize elections based on this new law on postal elections. Therefore, currently there is no basis to print ballot papers and organize elections normally. This is the problem. That is, the question is for all of us. Are we a banana republic or a democratic republic of the rule of law – he emphasized.

It's the opposition that wants to ensure safety, while the rulers currently completely disregard Poles' security. It's known that elections in May, whether ordinary elections – which I don't think are even being discussed anymore – or even postal elections, are simply dangerous because they would require, among other things, the dropping of ballot papers; the very distribution of ballot papers poses a risk. We propose introducing a state of natural disaster and conducting elections at a safe time – stated Rafał Trzaskowski in a conversation with Anita Werner on TVN24's 'Fakty po faktach'.

"In my opinion, the presidential election on May 10th cannot be organized. It would require cutting corners, repeatedly breaking regulations and the law. These would be elections very easy to challenge, also because the ballot papers are to be distributed without confirmation. I believe this is a fundamental flaw. Generally, I am a proponent of postal voting," stated Jarosław Gowin, leader of Agreement, in an interview with Monika Olejnik on "Kropka nad i" on TVN24.

"If the opposition rejects this proposal [for a constitutional amendment], I have a compromise offer for PiS. Let's properly prepare the postal voting regulations legislatively, organize it well, and hold the elections in mid-August" - said Jarosław Gowin, leader of Porozumienie, in an interview with Monika Olejnik on TVN24's "Kropka nad i".

"The Agreement is a democratic party. We never impose voting discipline. There are different views. I am convinced that whatever the Agreement MPs vote, perhaps in some cases differently than I will, in every case the vote will be cast for the sake of the national interest, the interest of Polish society. In my opinion, the interest of society requires an urgent postponement of the elections and a focus on important matters" – said the leader of the Agreement, Jarosław Gowin, in an interview with Monika Olejnik on "Kropka nad i" on TVN24.

“I am conducting official talks with parts of the opposition. I am not conducting them with the Left, because the Left doesn't want to talk to anyone. The Left's stance reminds me of a former presidential candidate who wants nothing to happen. This is the Left's approach today. They don't present their own proposals, and they criticize all other proposals, including those of Civic Platform, outright. So what do the politicians of the Left want? For nothing to happen” – said Jaroslaw Gowin, leader of Agreement, in an interview with Monika Olejnik on ‘Kropka nad i’ on TVN24.

"For now, I am awaiting the outcome of negotiations with the opposition. Then, I will await the results of the votes in the Senate. Once I know these results, I will present my MPs with a recommendation, leaving each of them freedom of conscience in their vote. Subsequently, I will inform the United Right coalition partners of my decision. A unified vote by the United Right on the election date is possible at all times, but it cannot be May 10th. It could be mid-August" - stated Jarosław Gowin, leader of the Agreement party, in an interview with Monika Olejnik on "Kropka nad i" (Dot Over i) on TVN24.

„It's no secret that we met with President Duda today, because someone took a photo from the Presidential Palace. No, I did not meet with Prime Minister Sasin. The Prime Minister was entering [the Palace] when I was still talking with the President for a long time. Perhaps the Prime Minister was visiting someone else in the Presidential Palace. The President's stance is known because he articulates it publicly. On the other hand, the President, having familiarized himself with my proposal for a single, seven-year presidential term, which would be an extension of the term by 2 years, but without the right to run in subsequent elections” - said the leader of Porozumienie, Jarosław Gowin, in an interview with Monika Olejnik on "Kropka nad i" on TVN24.

-- LIVEBLOG 300POLITYKI: BIEDROŃ APPEALS FOR ELECTORAL MOBILIZATION AND PARTICIPATION GOWIN ON THE AUGUST COMPROMISE AND A VISIT TO THE PRESIDENT TRZASKOWSKI ON THE LACK OF GROUNDS FOR DISCLOSING VOTER REGISTRY MAIL https://300polityka.pl/live/2020/04/22/ ***** POLSAT EVENTS -- WE HAVEN'T WON AGAINST CORONAVIRUS YET, AND HERE'S ANOTHER SERIOUS PROBLEM - DROUGHT AND FIRES. -- ANDRZEJ DUDA DISCUSSED DROUGHT WITH MINISTERS OF, AMONG OTHERS, THE ENVIRONMENT AND AGRICULTURE, THE LATTER CONCERNING UNPAID COMPENSATION FOR FARMERS DUE TO LAST YEAR'S DROUGHT - Grzegorz Kępka. -- A FEW MINUTES LATER, THE PRIME MINISTER SPOKE WITH THE MINISTER - Kępka continued. -- THE OPPOSITION SPEAKS OF AN ELECTORAL FIXED MATCH, AND WŁADYSŁAW KOSINIAK-KAMYSZ RECALLS HIS YESTERDAY'S ADDRESS DEDICATED TO DROUGHT COMPENSATION - Kępka. -- ALONGSIDE THE EPIDEMIC, DROUGHT COULD BE THE NEXT PLAGUE WE WILL STRUGGLE WITH - Kępka continued. -- AFTER A PERIOD OF FREEZE, THE THAW BEGINS IN GOVERNMENT OFFICES. -- POLAND IS RETURNING TO WORK, MORE AND MORE COMPANIES ARE RESUMING PRODUCTION, MORE AND MORE SECTORS ARE MOVING TO THE SECOND PHASE OF LIFTING RESTRICTIONS. -- ACCORDING TO UNOFFICIAL INFORMATION, THE SECOND PHASE WILL OCCUR IN THE FIRST HALF OF MAY - Dorota Gawryluk. -- TO FINALLY UNFREEZE THE COUNTRY, MORE TESTS NEED TO BE CONDUCTED TO SEPARATE THE SICK FROM THE HEALTHY. -- CIVIC PLATFORM IS FILING A COMPLAINT WITH THE PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE AGAINST DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER SASIN; THE OPPOSITION CRITICIZES THE MINISTER FOR HIS STATEMENT ABOUT PRINTING ELECTION BALLOTS. -- THE TOTAL NUMBER OF INFECTED PEOPLE IN POLAND SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE EPIDEMIC EXCEEDED 10 THOUSAND TODAY. ***** FAKTY TVN -- THERE IS NO LAW, BUT THE PRINTING PRESSES ARE ALREADY WORKING; THE OPPOSITION ASKS BY WHAT RIGHT - in the preview. -- MACIEJ KNAPIK ON TWO REALITIES: Here are two realities. The first is the information posted on the website of Poczta Polska (Polish Post): "We inform that Poczta Polska does not deliver shipments addressed to quarantined addresses. The first delivery attempt will only take place after the quarantine period has ended. We ask individuals under quarantine to stay at home, refrain from attempting to obtain shipments, and calmly await delivery at the earliest possible date." Who will decide on the validity of the elections? "The Supreme Court is morally obliged to resolve this issue." In the shadow of the pandemic, a dispute continues over the date of the presidential elections, as well as whether in this situation... Reality number two is the reality in which the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State Assets lives. - "These elections must take place in May," assessed Jacek Sasin. -- ELECTIONS IN MAY AT ALL COSTS - HEARD FROM NOWOGRODZKA: "Elections in May at all costs" is the goal of politicians from Nowogrodzka (referring to PiS headquarters). The opposition believes it will be a farce, not an election. -- DR. FLIS ON A FARCE: Each of them can lead to a situation where these elections will be perceived as a farce by the public. -- ACCORDING TO THE OPPOSITION, PRINTING ELECTION BALLOTS WITHOUT A LEGAL BASIS IS SIMPLE CRIMINAL OFFENSE, AS DESCRIBED IN THE PENAL CODE - Knapik. -- TOMCZYK ON SASIN IN PRISON: Jacek Sasin, who is printing the ballots, is committing a crime, and for such a thing, he will simply end up in prison. This must be stated clearly. -- KNAPIK ON POSTMEN: Postal workers do not understand why they are being drawn into the election process mechanism at all costs during the epidemic. The Forum of Trade Unions is alerting that postmen have recently been recommended to seal torn and worn-out gloves with transparent adhesive tape. -- ANDRZEJ SOŚNIERZ ON HESITATION: Here I leave myself room for assessment and to make a final decision. -- NEGOTIATIONS HAVE BEEN GOING ON FOR MANY DAYS - Knapik on the situation with Gowin and PiS. -- BIEBRZA NATIONAL PARK IS BURNING: Poland's largest protected area is on fire. For another day, Biebrza National Park, home to many unique and rare bird species, has been burning. Firefighters from Poznań and Krakow have rushed to help fight the element. -- NIK ON SOCIAL WELFARE HOMES (DPS): Another Social Welfare Home has been evacuated; over 50 people from the center in Kleszczów have been diagnosed with coronavirus infection. COVID-19 is a particular threat to the elderly and infirm, which is why Social Welfare Homes should be under special supervision. According to the latest report from the Supreme Audit Office, state supervision over these facilities "is often merely nominal." ***** WIADOMOŚCI TVP -- POLES ARE WINNING THE FIGHT AGAINST CORONAVIRUS. -- THE GOVERNMENT ASSURES THAT CORONAVIRUS IN POLAND IS UNDER CONTROL. THANKS TO THE QUICKLY IMPLEMENTED AND OBSERVED RESTRICTIONS, THE SCALE OF INCREASE IN CASES HAS BEEN LIMITED - preview. -- THE GOVERNMENT IS SAVING SOCIAL WELFARE HOMES - belka. -- IN THE COMING DAYS, WE SHOULD EXPECT THE EFFECTS OF THE MINISTRIES' WORK ON FURTHER AID PROPOSALS - preview. -- FIRE IN BIEBRZA NATIONAL PARK. -- IF IT DOESN'T RAIN, A RETURN TO THE BAN ON ENTERING FORESTS IS POSSIBLE - Konrad Warzocha. -- FARMERS DAMAGED BY DROUGHT WILL NOT BE LEFT ALONE. THE PRESIDENT APPEALED TO THE GOVERNMENT FOR QUICK INTERVENTION, AND THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE RESPONDED POSITIVELY TO THE APPEAL - preview. -- THE PRESIDENT APPEALED TO THE GOVERNMENT FOR THE URGENT PAYMENT OF COMPENSATION TO THOSE FARMERS WHO HAVE NOT YET RECEIVED MONEY - Konrad Wąż. -- THE GOVERNMENT REACTED IMMEDIATELY. COMPENSATION WILL BE PAID STARTING TOMORROW - Wąż. -- THE OPPOSITION IS THREATENING WITH IMPEACHMENT AND IMPRISONMENT FOR PREPARATIONS FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS. THIS CONCERNS THE PRINTING OF BALLOTS AND POSTAL MOBILIZATION. THE GOVERNMENT EXPLAINS THAT THE ACTIONS ARE LEGAL AND NECESSARY BECAUSE NO ONE CAN BE DEPRIVED OF THE RIGHT TO VOTE - preview. -- THE SENATE'S 16-DAY DELAY ENDANGERS POLES. -- AMONG POLES, THERE IS A GROWING DEMAND FOR THE QUICKEST POSSIBLE ORGANIZATION OF VOTING BY MAIL - Krzysztof Nowina-Konopka. -- THE MARSHAL OF THE SENATE HAS A DIFFERENT OPINION. GRODZKI DECIDED THAT THE SENATE WILL ADDRESS THE LAW AT THE LATEST POSSIBLE DATE - Nowina-Konopka. -- KID AWA-BŁOŃSKA IS NO LONGER TALKING ABOUT BOYCOTTING THE ELECTIONS OR SUSPENDING THE CAMPAIGN. SHE STILL DEMANDS THE INTRODUCTION OF A STATE OF NATURAL DISASTER, ALTHOUGH IN 2015 DURING A DROUGHT, SHE JUSTIFIED THE PO-PSL GOVERNMENT FOR NOT WANTING TO DO SO - Nowina-Konopka. -- POSTPONING THE ELECTIONS COULD SAVE THE CANDIDATE FROM AN ELECTORAL CATASTROPHE - Nowina-Konopka. -- OPPOSITION COMPETITORS ARE STARTING TO PANIC ABOUT THE KO CANDIDATE - Nowina-Konopka. -- PO POLITICIANS ARE THREATENING THE PRIME MINISTER AND DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER WITH IMPEACHMENT AND IMPRISONMENT FOR PREPARATIONS FOR MAIL-IN VOTING, BUT THE GOVERNMENT IS FORCED TO DO THIS BY THE SHIELD 2.0 LAW - Nowina-Konopka. -- ELECTION PACKAGES WILL BE OZONATED AND DISINFECTED - Nowina-Konopka. -- THE GOVERNMENT REMINDS THAT NOT HOLDING THE VOTE IN MAY WOULD MEAN VIOLATING THE CONSTITUTION - Nowina-Konopka.

- We're unfreezing fundraising because we're unfreezing the campaign. There's no fundraising like this in Polish politics. The goal is to prevent the plan to take over our state - said Szymon Hołownia during an FB live.

"The state of emergency being discussed also entails the internment of certain individuals. This is feasible because Kaczyński has a puppet president in his hand, as well as the greatest poet Poland has ever had – Mateusz Morawiecki. While we think about the survival of the state and businesses, they think about a state of emergency," Szymon Hołownia stated during an FB live session.

"We are many more than them, we just don't want to. We can cover them with hats. After all, if we bury them in ballot envelopes, they won't be able to forge fast enough," said Szymon Hołownia during an FB live. "It's all within reach, we can truly have a civic president," he said.

- Someone said today that if the elections were postponed, there would be no president. Well, the Speaker of the Sejm would replace him, besides, what does it matter in the situation we have. I don't even know what to call the president we have. Someone called him: subcontractor today - said Szymon Hołownia on FB.

"This is a president and presidential candidate who has no election program. Yesterday he stood with Mrs. Szydło and signed some card saying he wouldn't let 500+ be taken away. Wait a minute, who wants to take it away?" - said Szymon Hołownia on FB.

- Even if we, the democratic candidates, were to withdraw, Mr. Duda would remain with Mr. Jakubiak. They made that maneuver impossible for us with Mr. Jakubiak. I am not going to give up, let that be clear - Szymon Hołownia said on FB.

"We did it. We've raised 3 million since the start of the campaign. Every grosz from it will be spent on saving democracy and ensuring Poland remains Poland. You've set a record for political fundraising for elections in Poland. This is a matter for all of us. Poland has always been a home for everyone with open doors, not the seat of a sect that barricades itself and imprisons everyone so they can't express their views," said Hołownia, commenting on the fundraising results.

"We are not guilty, yet we are responsible" – Hermann Hesse once wrote. Today we face the greatest public health, social, and economic crisis of recent decades. And although no one foresaw or avoided the advent of the pandemic, its long-term consequences depend largely on us" – writes Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki in an article for Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.

Prime Minister Morawiecki reiterates his message from La Repubblica about the need for greater solidarity: "Therefore, today more than ever, we need a Europe of Solidarity – with an ambitious budget and a new, rebuilt equilibrium. The functioning of the EU must be driven by the ambition of solid economic cooperation undertaken to protect the integrated European market. We must be aware that the decisions we make today are existential. We must do everything in our power to save European dreams, plans, and ambitions. This is an incredibly difficult task, as it requires simultaneous action on multiple fronts. The economy and health currently need an urgent rescue plan. We should already outline the most important principles of the new European equilibrium today."

The Prime Minister points to Europe's dependence on supply chains: "The coronavirus pandemic has brutally made us aware of the fragility of our socio-economic order. It has shown how dependent Europe is, for example, on supply chains from other continents. In search of savings and cutting production costs, many European companies have moved manufacturing processes to cheap Asian regions, neglecting domestic sources of supply. What seems perverse today, the financial discipline implemented by the European Commission forced Member States to make difficult choices, often leading to reduced public spending on health. But this is not a reason to pity ourselves, but to take matters into our own hands."

Morawiecki returns to the postulate of an ambitious budget and, like during discussions in Davos with Bruno Le Maire and during Macron's visit to Warsaw, speaks of the Union's own revenues: "Today, the first principle of the new European equilibrium should be to rebuild the capacity to counteract the consequences of such collective crises. Europe needs a comprehensive economic recovery package stimulating the European economy. Our common agreement on the ambitious shape of the Multiannual Financial Framework and an increase in own resources, EU revenues, is necessary. Only in this way will we find the equilibrium that has disappeared as a result of internal divisions and mutual animosities."

PMM notes the Union's actions during the crisis: "We appreciate that the Union has eased the conditions for its members to counteract the crisis – it has created instruments providing guarantees for loans and more flexible rules for using European funds. Public aid approval law in Member States has also been simplified, and the rules of the Stability and Growth Pact have been temporarily suspended. Each Member State, some faster and others slower, has begun actions within their national budgets to save jobs and the economy. However, for Europe to regain its growth and brilliance, we must do more together."

Prime Minister Morawiecki returns to the postulate of friends of cohesion – an ambitious budget: "We must now shed our fear of an ambitious budget. In the era of the current crisis, the most effective form of EU assistance will be funds allocated to cohesion and agricultural policy. However, merely shifting funds within existing amounts is merely a semblance of short-term survival tactics. And Europe needs a strategy to rebuild its position."

The Prime Minister clarifies the EU's own revenues, which he also recently spoke about in the Sejm: "We still have the comfort of indicating new sources of financing. The introduction of FTT taxes, digital taxes, carbon border adjustment mechanisms from third countries, or a Single Market Fee would constitute a valuable source of own revenues for the Union."

Morawiecki agrees with UdL's words that the EU has done more in four weeks than in the previous crisis's four years: "The President of the European Commission recently stated that 'in the last four weeks, Europe has done more than in the first four years of the last crisis.' This is true. The Community is facing unprecedented challenges today. But this is still only the first kilometer in the marathon that awaits us. How we deal with the consequences of the pandemic will redefine the European Union. 'The future begins today, not tomorrow,' said St. John Paul II. The time for our action is now."