When so-called round-table talks between the Polish regime and the Solidarity-led opposition began last month, few observers expected a quick breakthrough. At issue was the political price the government would pay to win support for economic austerity measures. Last week, to just about everyone's surprise, the negotiators disclosed that they had agreed on a thorough reorganization of the political system. The reform would include the creation of a senate to complement the existing lower house, or Sejm, with members chosen in free elections, as well as the institution of a powerful presidency, with the officeholder selected by parliament. Said Jacek Kuron,...
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