Polish Supreme Court Confirms Nawrocki Victory Amid Protests, Legitimacy Disputes

Poland’s Supreme Court has confirmed the validity of the June 1, 2025, presidential election where Karol Nawrocki, backed by the Law and Justice (PiS) party, narrowly defeated Rafal Trzaskowski with approximately 51% of the vote. Despite over 54,000 complaints filed challenging the election results, the court recognized only 21 as valid and concluded that confirmed irregularities did not affect the overall outcome. The court emphasized that a nationwide recount was not possible under Polish electoral law, which only allows review in specific districts where irregularities are proven. The decision, announced by the court’s Extraordinary Control and Public Affairs Chamber, faced criticism due to the disputed legitimacy of this chamber, as noted by European courts questioning its independence. The ruling clears the way for Nawrocki’s inauguration planned for August, marking a significant political shift in Poland amid ongoing polarization between the nationalist opposition and the pro-EU government. The outcome is seen as a setback for the current government led by Donald Tusk and LGBTQ rights advocates.