The election run in Gdańsk is simply a parade of vanity

The local election remained a small over a month. Unfortunately, the ongoing election run in Gdańsk is simply a parade of vanity but for insignificant exceptions.

The election run to the local governments in Gdańsk, in my opinion, may origin more and more discontent. It cannot be hidden that the period between the beginning of February and April 7 (when elections will take place) alternatively of being a forum for exchanging ideas and visions for the city, has evolved into a scope of endless presentations of candidates' faces, without delving into concrete suggestions for changes to the city.

The first and most demanding criticism is the deficiency of electoral promises and programmes by committees. It is worrying that in the face of the challenges facing Gdańsk – even the increasing traffic, the ageing society, or even external threats – the public discussion focuses on empty slogans alternatively of circumstantial solutions. It would seem that the election run is the perfect minute to present to the residents their visions of city development. Unfortunately in Gdańsk in the election run in 2024, this chance is wasted.

In addition, the election run in Gdańsk seems to be an chance only for the alleged lansu – to remember its image and name. Candidates compete with each another in popularity alternatively than in the quality of their ideas. In an perfect world, innovative solutions and fresh ideas should be about the strength of the campaign, not the ability to pose for photos or the number of likes on social media.

Moreover, the candidates for Presidents of Gdańsk choose to stone in the media alternatively of organizing rallies or large meetings with residents. This way of campaigning seems to be a strategy that minimises the hazard of hard questions and confronts citizens' expectations directly.

Election run in Gdańsk is an chance to promote... cult games

There are besides curiosal methods of promotion. 1 of the candidates chose to advance iconic computer games – “Heros of Power & Magic 3” and Polish comedy films – “Boys don’t cry”, spending most likely a tiny amount of money on sponsored advertising. Although this may bring temporary attention, it is hard to recognise this as a strategy for building trust and credibility in the context of city management.

Another candidate, in turn, invites residents to morning coffee shops meetings erstwhile most people rush to work. Although the thought seems good at first glance, its applicable value in building dialog with voters is at least controversial.

In summary, the election run in Gdańsk is losing its substantive value. alternatively of constructive dialog and presentation of thoughtful plans for urban development, we are dealing with a parade of vanity and ineffective, though creative, attempts to attract attention.

The people of Gdańsk deserve more – a run with ideas and not just faces.

Maciej Nadrąt