Tusk to call vote of confidence after opponent takes presidency

Poland's prime minister, Donald Tusk, has said he will call a vote of confidence in his government as he seeks to shore up support for his coalition after a bruising defeat in the country's presidential election.

- Jakub Krupa

In his first public comments since Sunday's election result was declared, Tusk sought to regain momentum as he promised to "get to work" and submit a number of draft laws to get back on the front foot.

Congratulating the opposition candidate Karol Nawrocki's supporters on his win, Tusk said late yesterday his government had a "contingency plan" for the setback as he vowed to "not stop even for a moment" and double down on his legal agenda.

In a televised prime-time statement, he said he wanted "everyone, including our opponents at home and abroad, to see... we understand the gravity of the moment, but will not back down a single step" and that he would seek a crucial parliamentary vote to confirm his majority.

The dramatic move highlights the government's difficult position as it comes to terms with the consequences of losing the race for the presidency.