The ceremony marked the end of outgoing President Andrzej Duda’s second term in office.
Karol Nawrocki is sworn in as Poland's new president, alongside his wife Marta Nawrocka. Photo: PAP/Paweł Supernak
Nawrocki, who won the election earlier this year, took his oath before the National Assembly—composed of both houses of parliament—in the plenary hall of the lower house shortly after 10 a.m. local time.
In his first address as president, he outlined his vision for the country.
Under Poland’s electoral law, the incoming president must take the oath on the final day of the outgoing president’s term. Duda’s presidency officially ended on Wednesday.
Following the swearing-in, Nawrocki and his wife Marta will participate in a series of ceremonial events, including a meeting with parliamentary leaders, a mass at St. John’s Basilica in Warsaw, and a formal acceptance of the presidential insignia at the Royal Castle—including the Order of the White Eagle and the Polonia Restituta Order, Poland’s highest civilian honours.
A symbolic transfer of military command will take place at Piłsudski Square in the afternoon.
Nawrocki will receive a report from the Chief of the General Staff and greet senior military commanders. He will also deliver a speech and preside over a military parade. Though symbolic, the ceremony signifies his formal role as commander-in-chief, which constitutionally begins with the oath of office.
Earlier in the day, Nawrocki and parliamentary leaders will lay wreaths at several commemorative plaques in the Polish capital, including those honouring the late President Lech Kaczyński and victims of the 2010 air disaster near Smolensk, western Russia.
At around 3:15 p.m., the presidential couple will arrive at the Presidential Palace, accompanied by a ceremonial guard and military orchestra.
By 5:30 p.m., Nawrocki and his family will settle into the residence.
Supporters are expected to march from the houses of parliament to the Presidential Palace as part of the "Red-and-White March for the President," co-organized by civic groups, including one known as Gazeta Polska Clubs.
Nawrocki is scheduled to deliver three speeches throughout the day—at the National Assembly, the Royal Castle, and during the military ceremony at Piłsudski Square.
Image: KPRP/Polish President's Office
“This will be a moment for President Nawrocki to meet with the Polish people and thank them for their support,” presidential spokesman Rafał Leśkiewicz said. “There will be an opportunity to shake hands and take photos," he added.
Karol Nawrocki. Photo: PAP/Paweł Supernak
(gs)
Source: IAR, PAP