The 'third twin' steps down

Despite a reputation as one of the Kaczyński twins' most loyal allies - earning him the moniker "the third twin" - Deputy Prime Minister Ludwik Dorn resigned from his post as Interior Minister last week, surprising most observers of Poland's political scene. Along with the Kaczyńskis, Dorn was a founding member of the Law and Justice party. He will stay on in his role as Deputy Prime Minister, at the request of Prime Minister Jarosław Kaczyński.

Coming just two days after the resignation of Defense Minister Radosław Sikorski, Dorn's move sparked rumors of a larger shakeup in Polish politics - especially since some officials had earlier predicted that the Prime Minister was preparing for a cabinet reshuffle.

However, the Prime Minister indicated that the change would make little difference to his government. "One change in the government is not a big deal," he said. "Eight ministers would have been a big deal … but further changes are not ruled out."

In Dorn's place, the Prime Minister appointed Poland's chief prosecutor Janusz Kaczmarek, who is not a member of any political party, but who has been at the forefront of the conservative government's campaign against corruption.

Political analysts said the departures of both Dorn and Sikorski likely came down to disagreements on specific issues, rather than any major political realignment.

"These moves make very little difference to the political complexion of the government," said Radosław Markowski, head of the electoral research section of the Institute of Political Studies in Warsaw. (Reuters)