A photo taken during the May 3rd Constitution Day celebrations has stirred up considerable controversy — all because of how it was cropped. The opposition claims it was no accident.
Yesterday’s ceremony in Warsaw marking the anniversary of Poland’s Constitution of May 3rd made headlines not just for the president’s powerful speech. Tensions were also palpable among politicians who, at least on paper, are meant to be cooperating within the ruling coalition. The real fallout, however, played out on social media.
The image posted on the official account of the Prime Minister’s Office shows Donald Tusk surrounded by his coalition partners. To his right, both Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz and Deputy PM Krzysztof Gawkowski are clearly visible. Senate Speaker Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska (Civic Coalition) stands to Tusk’s left — and she, too, is well framed in the shot.
But then, quite suddenly, the frame ends — right where Sejm Speaker Szymon Hołownia was standing. In the photo, only the top of his head and a glimpse of his glasses can be seen. Coincidence? Not according to the opposition.
“Look how much respect Donald Tusk has for his coalition partner — and above all, the Speaker of the Sejm. Shameful,” wrote opposition MP Waldemar Buda (Law and Justice) on social media.
Tensions Rising: Hołownia vs. Trzaskowski
The tension comes on the heels of a recent presidential debate hosted by Super Express, where Hołownia publicly challenged Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski. The two traded barbs throughout the debate.
“If you become president, will you sign a bill that finally brings order to state-owned companies?” Hołownia asked pointedly. Trzaskowski fired back, reminding him that one of Hołownia’s allies serves as his deputy mayor. But Hołownia didn’t let it slide: “You’re the deputy of the one who bears the greatest responsibility!” he retorted.
A few days later, that very “one who bears the greatest responsibility” — Donald Tusk — appeared prominently in the official government photo. Hołownia? Not so much.