In a significant political development, billionaire populist Andrej Babiš’s ANO party has emerged victorious in the Czech Republic’s parliamentary elections. While the results indicate a win for Babiš, his party did not secure an outright majority in the 200-seat parliament. Preliminary results show ANO garnered just under 35% of the vote, translating to 80 seats, an increase from the previous election where they held 72 seats.
Babiš, who previously served as prime minister from 2017 to 2021, is anticipated to be tasked with forming the next coalition government. Addressing supporters in Prague, Babiš declared it a “historic success,” vowing to work towards making the Czech Republic the “best place to live in the European Union.” His victory, though largely anticipated, leaves several questions unanswered regarding future coalition dynamics and policy directions.
The path to forming a government will likely involve negotiations with two smaller right-wing parties that crossed the 5% threshold: the anti-Green Deal Motorists for Themselves and the anti-immigrant Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) party led by Tomio Okamura. Forming a stable majority will be crucial, especially as Babiš has expressed a desire for ANO to govern alone. A key policy difference, however, is Babiš’s firm stance against referendums on EU or NATO membership, a priority for the SPD.
In terms of foreign policy, Babiš’s administration may signal shifts. He has been critical of military aid to Ukraine, suggesting a reduction in support. Specifically, he has proposed to scrap the Czech ammunition initiative, which has supplied Ukraine with millions of shells. Babiš claims the initiative lacks transparency and advocates for it to be managed under NATO’s umbrella. Despite these shifts, Babiš has dismissed concerns from Western allies about the Czech Republic’s reliability as a partner, emphasizing his past positive relationships with international leaders and his administration’s previous successes.
Related Stories
- Billionaire populist eyes power in Czech vote but may need help from extremes
- Emil the Elk caught after long summer on the loose in Central Europe
- Czech police finally catch up with ‘phantom racing car driver’
- Czech opposition leader hit in head with crutch during rally
- A bridge too far? Prague railway project draws criticism