Last Thursday, a new Czech government was voted into power by a narrow majority, led by populist leader Andrej Babiš of the right-wing ANO party.
Babiš appointment as prime minister, more than 100 days after the country’s elections, was hailed by far right leaders across Europe, with comparisons drawn between the 71-year-old billionaire and US president Donald Trump.
All 108 MPs from coalition parties ANO, SPD and the Motorists supported the formation of the new government, while 91 opposition MPs voted against.
The new government has already indicated a change in policy when it comes to energy, climate, infrastructure, media, taxation, and social issues – rejecting the EU Green Deal and 2035 ban on combustion engine vehicles; prioritising the continued use of coal and gas for energy; and promoting limits on public funding for non-governmental organisations.
‘A dark day’
The European Greens didn’t mince their words when commenting on the new Czech government, with Vula Tsetsi, co-chair, describing it as a “dark day for the Czech republic, and a dark day for democracy in the European Union.
“A far-right coalition […] allied with parties that deny democracy, deny climate change, and echo authoritarian and Kremlin narratives, has taken power. This is not just a national shift – it threatens European unity, fundamental rights, our collective response to the climate crisis, and support for Ukraine at a critical moment.”
Tsetsi also noted, however, that the return of Zelení, the Czech Green Party, to the Chamber of Deputies “shows that a resilient, pro-European, democratic alternative still exists in Czech society. We will continue to fight for democracy, human rights, and climate action, now more urgently than ever”.
Gabriela Svárovská, MP and co-chair of Zelení, added that Babiš “still has not resolved his massive conflict of interest regarding his ownership of the Czech agricultural conglomerate, Agrofert. He also faces an ongoing investigation for subsidy fraud. It is not surprising therefore, that he has allied himself with parties who have promised not to lift his immunity. The entire country will pay the price for it.” Read more here.
