Czech president set to start negotiations for new government

The head of state noted that the high voter turnout in this year’s elections clearly demonstrates citizens’ engagement in public life and reflects their deep concern for the country's future.

He thanked everyone involved and praised the work of members of local election commissions, government bodies, and institutions that ensured the elections were conducted smoothly and votes were accurately counted.

“I congratulate the ANO 2011 movement on their election victory, as well as all the political parties that succeeded. The results show that voters have clearly reaffirmed our country’s predominantly pro-Western course,” Pavel stated.

The president added that starting tomorrow, he will begin negotiations on forming a government with the parties that performed well in the elections and passed the required threshold to enter the Chamber of Deputies.

Parliamentary elections in Czechia

On October 3–4, parliamentary elections were held in the Czech Republic. According to the results, six political forces will enter parliament.

The largest share of votes (35.15%, 82 seats) was won by the ANO party, led by former Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš. The second place went to the center-right SPOLU coalition, led by current Prime Minister Petr Fiala, with 22.90% of the vote (51 seats).

A majority in parliament requires 101 seats. Even if ANO and SPOLU form a coalition, they would together have only 98 seats, meaning they would need to bring in deputies from other parties to form a majority.

Babiš opposes providing military aid to Ukraine and is unofficially called the Czech Orban due to his pro-Russian stance. The former prime minister has repeatedly expressed his intention to end the Czech initiative supplying artillery shells to the Ukrainian Armed Forces at Western expense.

For a detailed analysis of the future coalition in the Czech parliament and the implications of the elections, read the article by RBC-Ukraine.