Czech Billionaire Babiš Secures Coalition with Far-Right Parties
Andrej Babiš, the Czech billionaire and agricultural magnate, took a major step toward becoming the country’s next prime minister by signing a coalition agreement on Monday. The deal includes the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) party and the right-wing Motorists for Themselves (Motoristé sobě) party.
Parliamentary Majority
The newly formed coalition will control 108 out of 200 seats in the lower house of Parliament. Babiš’s own ANO party holds 80 seats, while the SPD has 15 and the Motorists hold 13.
Concerns over Babiš’s Leadership
Babiš’s success in recent elections has raised concerns among Brussels officials and his opponents due to potential anti-establishment alliances at the European level. Despite worries about possible business conflicts of interest, Czech President Petr Pavel appointed Babiš to form a government last week, moving him closer to official nomination as prime minister-designate.
Government Policy Outlook
Babiš’s ANO movement, considered the most moderate party in the coalition, plans to reduce support for key EU initiatives. These include migration policies and climate measures such as ETS2, the emissions trading system, and opposition to Brussels’ attempt to ban combustion engines.
"Czech President Petr Pavel tapped Babiš to form the government last week — a step toward being officially nominated as prime minister-designate."
"The coalition will hold 108 out of 200 seats in parliament’s lower house."
This new coalition signals a shift toward a more populist and Eurosceptic stance in Czech politics under Babiš’s expected leadership.
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