The police in Stargard received 11 applications. The candidates were covered in paint, torn, with their eyes gouged out.

During the election campaign, when citizens prepare to make one of the most important political decisions, the election of the country's president, acts of vandalism, such as the destruction of election posters, are becoming more frequent.

On one of Rafał Trzaskowski's election banners in Chociwel someone painted swastikas, in Stargard a poster in the Old Town was given a vulgar inscription. In Stargard on the Pyrzycki housing estate another vandal cut out Karol Nawrocki's face, after some time it was glued on, and then it disappeared completely. Others were smeared with paint, and the words "liar" were painted on. Grzegorz Braun also "got it", his banner at the roundabout near the Pyrzycki housing estate was smeared with paint. The least damage to election materials, according to our observations, was recorded in Stargard and the Stargard district in the case of Szymon Hołownia and Magdalena Biejat. Vandals tear off banners, gouge out candidates' eyes, write unsophisticated comments.

– We have received 11 reports – informs Senior Sergeant Adrianna Szczerba from the District Police Headquarters in Stargard. – They concern the destruction of election materials of candidates running in the presidential elections.

Election posters are one of the basic tools of communication between candidates and voters. They allow for the presentation of the profile, program and views of those running for office. For many people, especially in smaller towns, this is one of the few ways to get to know the candidates. For this reason, their destruction or removal affects not only the individual politician, but above all the right of citizens to reliable information.

Destroying election posters is a punishable act. According to the Polish Code of Petty Offences (Article 67 § 1), anyone who removes, damages or destroys an official announcement or election poster without the consent of an authorized person is subject to a fine, restriction of freedom or even arrest. In the case of more serious damage, the act may be classified as a crime - especially if the damage is associated with financial losses or elements of hate speech.

(In)