Presidential elections are important, but they are more about prestige and honor, and not power or instruments to govern the country effectively, said Donald Tusk, announcing his decision not to enter the presidential race. 'I don't want to participate in a race for the palace and honors, I want to participate in a great campaign for the victory of Poland in the civilization race in Europe and the world,' he said.

 

In the previous presidential race, back in 2005, Donald Tusk lost in the second round to Lech Kaczyński. The current president is expected to run for re-election. According to political analyst professor Andrzej Zybertowicz, one of the reasons behind Donald Tusk's decision to quit the competition, is because he realized the risk of losing to his political opponent Lech Kaczynski for the second time.

 

Political analyst Radosław Markowski is of the opinion that Donald Tusk's decision not to run is rational. The construction of the Polish political system is such that the real power lies in the hands of the Premier, not the President. Although he considers Donald Tusk's decision not to enter the presidential race rational, Radosław Markowski is surprised with the timing Donald Tusk chose to announce his decision.