President Petr Pavel addressed the nation with a heartfelt appeal to citizens: everyone should go to the parliamentary elections on 3 and 4 October. Those who do not vote leave the decision about the country’s future to others.
In his speech, the President emphasised the importance of a government that ensures security and protects the sovereignty of the Czech Republic within the community of democratic states, without yielding the country to Russia. At the same time, he promised to respect the election results and act in accordance with the Constitution. His goal is a stable and competent government.
Pavel spoke directly to the citizens: “Some of you may feel that there is no suitable party because there is always something or someone in the way. The perfect party does not exist, but there are ways to make a difference – use your four preference votes to support candidates you believe in.”
He warned that not voting means leaving control over the country’s decisions to others. “Does anyone really want others to decide for them?” the President asked.
Elections exist to either confirm or change government policy – within a transparent and constitutionally democratic system. Pavel firmly rejected statements by individual politicians questioning this system.
The speech also made clear that the elections are of particular importance given the heightened security situation in Europe and worldwide. Pavel highlighted that the country needs a government that guarantees security, upholds sovereignty, and strengthens ties to the EU and NATO.
He assured that he would respect the election results and work for a stable, competent government. At the same time, Pavel made it clear: “The President is not the final authority who can change or save election results. The decisive factor is you – the voters.”
Finally, he underlined the importance of independent electoral supervision and thanked the thousands of citizens serving in the polling stations. “Use your right to vote,” the President urged. “The few minutes you spend casting your vote serve our democracy, our freedom, and our security.”
The 2025 parliamentary elections in the Czech Republic will be held over two days, on 3 and 4 October. Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s government has been in office since 2021, after narrowly winning the last election with the Spolu alliance. Turnout in that election reached 65.4 per cent.
