Czech Republic legislative elections open with uncertain outcome
Polling stations opened on Friday, October 3, in the Czech Republic for a two-day parliamentary election marked by uncertainty. Former prime minister and billionaire Andrej Babis, who describes himself as a “Trumpist,” is considered the frontrunner but may struggle to secure a governing majority.
Babis has campaigned on a platform that includes reducing Czech support for Ukraine, a stance that could align Prague more closely with Hungary and Slovakia, both often at odds with the European Union. A victory for Babis could therefore complicate relations between the Czech Republic and Brussels at a time when the EU is seeking unity on the war in Ukraine.
Observers underline that even if Babis’s party, ANO, comes first, coalition talks will be decisive, given the fragmented nature of the Czech political scene. The final results are expected after the close of polls on Saturday.
