Parliamentary elections kick off in Czechia: Populist Babiš could claim victory
Photo: ANO party leader Andrej Babiš (Getty Images)
Parliamentary elections have begun in Czechia, which could significantly shift the country’s political course. The frontrunner is right-wing populist Andrej Babiš, who has made anti-Ukrainian statements, Deutsche Welle reports.
It is noted that the elections in the country are being held from 3:00 PM (Kyiv time) on October 3 until 11:00 PM (Kyiv time) the same day. On the morning of October 4, polling stations will also remain open until 3:00 PM (Kyiv time). More than eight million citizens are eligible to vote.
The election frontrunners:
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The ANO party of former prime minister, billionaire, and right-wing populist Andrej Babiš may receive 29.3% of the vote. Babiš opposes aid to Ukraine, including halting arms deliveries, and is considered pro-Russian.
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The center-right coalition Together (Spolu) of the current prime minister, Petr Fiala, may secure 20.5% of the vote.
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The far-right anti-immigration party Freedom and Direct Democracy, unexpectedly led by businessman of Japanese descent with dual citizenship, Tomio Okamura, is projected to win 10.1% support.
The first vote-counting results are expected on the evening of October 4. Following the elections, the 200-member lower house of parliament will be formed.
Babiš threat
RBC-Ukraine previously reported on the high likelihood of victory for the populist ANO (Yes) party in the Czech elections. It is led by former prime minister Andrej Babiš. If successful, he could return to head the government after a four-year break.
ANO leader Babiš is considered a supporter of Russia, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, and a staunch opponent of providing aid to Ukraine. Prime Minister Fiala has warned that Babiš would "pull the country to the East," while Czech President Petr Pavel has urged citizens to choose a government "that will protect the country."
It is clear that Babiš will not be able to secure a parliamentary majority on his own, despite his claims of wanting to do so. This means he will need to enter into a coalition. Since most political parties refuse to cooperate with him, his only real option is to ally with Okamura’s far-right party. If Babiš fails to form a coalition, he will not become prime minister even in the event of an electoral victory.
