"My idea is to reconcile with my political enemy over a drink", announces Lech Wałęsa and invites his main critics to his name day reception. Who exactly does he have in mind? Lech and Jarosław Kaczyńskis, of course."I don’t want any presents. A smile from my past opponents will be the best one", Wałęsa tells Radio Wawa.
He assures that there will be plenty of drinks for everyone, although - he stresses - one drink too many is not an option at his parties.
At least one of the Kaczyński brothers has turned down the offer of making peace over a glass. The government spokesman has confirmed that the prime minister will be too busy to find the time to turn up at Wałęsa’s party: "Jarosław Kaczyński has received an invitation, but due to his numerous engagements, he will not be able to travel to Gdańsk", Jan Dziedziczak told “Dziennik” daily.
It isn’t known yet if his brother Lech Kaczyński will find the time.
"President hasn’t made the decision if he would be going to Wałęsa’s name day party", the President’s Chancellery told “Dziennik”. "But Lech Kaczyński hasn’t attended Lecha Wałęsa’s name day receptions for years now", reminds Elżbieta Jakubiak from the chancellery.
This year, the former president has also invited his long-term enemies Anna Walentynowicz and Andrzej and Joanna Gwiazda (former Solidarity activists) to his party.
Two years ago, his worst past enemy, former president Aleksander Kwaśniewski came to the name day celebrations. Wałęsa restored friendly relations with him to comply with the wish of high rank church representatives.
"I am a loyal church member", says former president.
(mj)