In a pivotal development in Czech politics, President Petr Pavel announced on Wednesday that he is prepared to appoint populist billionaire Andrej Babiš as prime minister within a week, provided Babiš addresses concerns over potential conflicts of interest arising from his extensive business empire and political role. This follows Babiš’s ANO (YES) movement’s victory in the recent parliamentary elections, which paved the way for a coalition government with the Freedom and Direct Democracy party and the right-wing Motorists for Themselves. The coalition has agreed to form a 16-member Cabinet, with ANO holding eight positions, including the prime minister’s office. However, the president emphasized the need for Babiš to comply with the country’s stringent conflict-of-interest laws, which were amended in 2023 to prevent politicians from leveraging their wealth and power. Babiš, who owns around 200 companies under the Agrofert conglomerate and has significant investments in healthcare, must ensure his businesses remain eligible for state and EU subsidies. During a meeting with the president, Babiš presented his proposed Cabinet lineup and expressed his desire to have the new government in place by mid-December. However, the coalition’s nomination of Filip Turek, honorary president of the Motorists, sparked controversy due to his past racist, homophobic, and sexist remarks. President Pavel rejected Turek’s candidacy, deeming him unfit for a ministerial role. The coalition, known for its critical stance on EU policies, particularly regarding the environment and migration, is also expected to shift the country’s position on supporting Ukraine in its war against Russia.
Czech president ready to swear in Babiš as prime minister if conflict of interest is resolved
