In the spring of 1947, following Władysław Raczkiewicz’s death, a fierce dispute arose in London émigré circles over the interpretation of the provisions of the April Constitution regarding the succession of the President of the Republic of Poland. It was at this time that the late President’s instruction of 26th April 1947 came to light, in which he appointed August Zaleski as his successor. This met with strong resistance from numerous émigré circles, epitomised by the anti-presidential activities of General Władysław Anders, who headed the so-called Council of Three between 1954 and 1970. Despite strong criticism of his actions, President August Zaleski did not intend to relinquish his office and held it until his death in April 1972, thus becoming the longest-serving Polish President in history.