During a meeting with journalists Aug. 27, Lech Wałęsa hinted at "increased presidential action" in the future. He said he intended to wait for positive changes for another half a year, but if they did not come he would-with a different structure of government-proceed to fulfill the promises he made during his election campaign.

"If the discontent continues, I will lead the reforms in a more effective way, not just in a mediating and correcting capacity," said Wałęsa, while at the same time remarking that he would not want to do it, since "after all it would be a certain limiting of democracy." He answered dissenting voices by saying, "What can I do if I meet with resistance from the old guard and resistance from supernatural powers?"

The president declared that the strikes do not solve anything "since there is no money anyway and more will have to be printed."