Czech President Appoints Babis as Prime Minister

Czech President Petr Pavel officially appointed billionaire Andrej Babis, the leader of the populist ANO party, as prime minister on Tuesday. This appointment is a crucial step toward forming a new government following the ANO party’s victory in the October parliamentary election.

Babis, 71, is expected to assume control next week, replacing the center-right administration which strongly supported Ukraine.

Shift in Political Alignment and Cabinet

Babis is returning to power after four years in opposition. During this period, his political stance moved significantly toward the European fringe right.

The new cabinet will include partners from the far-right, reflecting this shift:

• The pro-Russian and anti-EU SPD party.
• The Motorists for Themselves party, which focuses on opposing the European Union’s climate policies.

Pavel Urges Continued EU and NATO Ties

During the appointment ceremony, President Pavel made a direct appeal to the incoming Prime Minister. He urged Babis to ensure the Czech Republic maintains strong relationships with both the EU and NATO.

Pavel warned that the new government must approach challenges with a constructive approach. He stressed the importance of not “put[ting] in doubt our attachments in the EU and NATO”.

Babis Plans Less Ukraine Aid

Babis announced his intention to focus on defending Czech interests, both domestically and internationally. He is aiming to have his cabinet appointed in time to attend an EU leaders’ summit on December 18-19.

The new Prime Minister has pledged to cut military aid for Ukraine from the national budget. Furthermore, his government may discontinue the Czech-run initiative that procures large-calibre ammunition for Ukraine globally.

Babis also criticized EU institutions, asserting that the bloc focuses too much on spending. He plans to oppose the EU’s migration policies and reject a proposal to expand carbon emission payments.

Conflict of Interest Resolved

Prior to his appointment, Babis took action to resolve a potential conflict of interest. He recently transferred his main asset, Agrofert—a large conglomerate spanning food, chemical, and farming sectors into a trust structure.

Babis also faces ongoing legal challenges regarding a €2 million EU subsidy he allegedly received fraudulently. Although he denies wrongdoing and returned the amount, an appeals court ordered a retrial. However, Babis may avoid a new trial if the parliament, now controlled by his allies, votes against lifting his political immunity.