Tens of thousands of Poles gathered in Warsaw for a nationalist Independence Day march on 11 November, the day the country celebrates its 1918 independence from the partitioning powers. The parade, which drew supporters of the ruling Civic Platform and other right‑wing groups, was held amid a tense atmosphere following a deadly attack in Krakow that authorities say was linked to far‑right ideology.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who has been in office since 2022, called for restraint and urged the nation to remain united in the wake of the Krakow incident. Tusk said that the country must not be divided by fear or extremist rhetoric, and that all citizens should work together to preserve Poland’s democratic values.
The Krakow attack, which resulted in several fatalities, has been described by police as a violent act inspired by far‑right beliefs. The incident has sparked a national debate about the rise of extremist groups and the need for stronger security measures.
Despite the tragedy, the Independence Day march proceeded with speeches, patriotic music and displays of the national flag. Organisers said the event was a celebration of Poland’s sovereignty and a reminder of the country’s long struggle for freedom.
Poland’s Independence Day, observed every year on 11 November, marks the anniversary of the country’s declaration of independence after 123 years of partition. The day is traditionally marked by parades, speeches and cultural events across the nation.
<small>Source: Al Jazeera — read the original story there.</small>