Poland inaugurates conservative president

Lech Kaczynski was sworn in as Poland’s new president today, completing the rise to power of conservative leaders who pledged to fight corruption, boost the economy and distance the country from its communist past.

“I solemnly swear to observe the constitution and to protect the freedom and independence of Poland,” Kaczynski said as he took his oath of office in parliament.

He ended with “so help me God” – an optional phrase skipped by his ex-communist predecessor, Aleksander Kwasniewski.