Conservative historian Karol Nawrocki, who draws inspiration from Donald Trump, has won Poland’s presidential election.
Mr Nawrocki secured 50.89% of votes while his opponent, Liberal pro-EU candidate Rafal Trzaskowski, took 49.11%.
Earlier, an exit poll called the result the other way around – with both men declaring victory.
Mr Nawrocki had positioned himself as a defender of traditional Polish values, aligning himself with US conservatives, including Mr Trump, and showing scepticism towards the EU.
Rafal Trzaskowski in Warsaw after the exit poll announcement. Pic: Reuters
Meanwhile, Mr Trzaskowski, 53, had promised to ease abortion restrictions, introduce civil partnerships for LGBT couples and promote constructive ties with European partners.
Karol Nawrocki addresses his supporters. Pic: AP
The vote has been closely watched in neighbouring Ukraine as well as in Russia, the European Union and the United States – and the final outcome will decide whether Poland pivots towards more liberal norms or takes a more nationalist path.
This runoff follows a tightly-contested first round of voting in May, which saw Mr Trzaskowski win just over 31% and Mr Nawrocki nearly 30%, eliminating 11 other candidates.
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Poland’s new president will have significant influence over whether the country’s centrist government can fulfil its agenda, given the presidential power to veto laws.
Led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, the government had struggled to pass legislation with Poland’s previous president in power and may find the same is true once Mr Nawrocki is sworn in.
Like his predecessor, Mr Nawrocki is expected to block any attempts by the government to liberalise abortion
or reform the judiciary.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was convinced the EU could continue its “very good
cooperation” with Poland.
“We are all stronger together in our community of peace, democracy, and values. So let us work to ensure the security and prosperity of our common home,” she said.