“Independence Day on November 11 is the most beautiful and joyful holiday — one that speaks of our independence and sovereignty, but also sets specific tasks for our future,” said President Karol Nawrocki in an interview with TV Republika.
Interview with the President on TV Republika
President Karol Nawrocki gave an interview to TV Republika, where journalist Danuta Holecka asked him, among other things, about the meaning of Independence Day. The head of state emphasized that “it is undoubtedly the most important holiday in our historical calendar — the most significant anniversary.”
“On November 11, after the struggle of five generations and a consistent pursuit of a free and independent Poland, this day became the moment when we regained our own home — our Poland. It is the most beautiful and joyful holiday speaking of our independence and sovereignty, but also one that gives us concrete tasks for the future,” he reminded.
The president was also asked about his earlier declaration to take active part in the Independence March.
“It won’t be the first time I participate in the Independence March — I have joined it many times in the past. It’s a very special event where all Poles can unite in celebrating our white-and-red flag and our shared values on November 11,” he said.
“This Is No March of Fascists”
President Nawrocki also addressed the attacks on patriots who took part in the march in recent years. Several years ago, Guy Verhofstadt called the Independence March a “march of fascists” that should not take place in Europe.
“I recall that, as the head of the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) in Gdańsk, I even publicly opposed such statements. I have always taken part in this march and seen a completely different picture than that euro-parliamentarian described. I saw families with children, people devoted to nurturing Polish identity. Of course, in such a large gathering, there are always various incidents. But it is certainly not a march of fascists — it is a march of people proud to be Polish,” President Nawrocki said.
“This Is No Coincidence”
The host then asked the president how he viewed the government’s decision to ban the use of flares during the event, as well as the ongoing renovation of Warsaw Central Station.
“It’s hard for me to judge today, but I remember well what happened during previous Independence Marches when the ruling party did not necessarily feel any attachment to this event. We witnessed provocations and certain actions that did not fit the dignity of Independence Day. I think this is no coincidence,” the president noted.
He added, however, that there is reason for optimism.
“We are a very defiant nation. When such situations occur — when someone tries to prove by force that people cannot reach Warsaw — I know that thousands of Poles get into their cars and drive to the capital. That’s who we are as Poles. When someone tells us not to wave the white-and-red flag or not to share in the joy of our Independence Day, we only become more determined to be there — in Warsaw,” the president emphasized.