President Petr Pavel appointed Andrej Babiš Prime Minister once again on Tuesday – meaning that the ANO leader is assuming the role of Czech Prime Minister for the third time after almost four years away from office.
The political change at the top of the Czech government is official: President Petr Pavel appointed the head of the ANO movement, Andrej Babiš, as Czech Prime Minister once again on Tuesday at Prague Castle. For the former head of government, it is already his third time taking office – and the first after nearly four years away. The remaining cabinet, formed by ANO together with the SPD and the Motoristé sobě movement, is to be appointed by Pavel on Monday, 15 December.
During the appointment, the President referred to the country’s difficult security and economic situation. The coming years would require decisions that may not always meet with public approval. Pavel stressed the need for a clear strategic direction, courage – and above all stable integration within the European Union and the NATO alliance.
The President also acknowledged that Babiš – as previously agreed – publicly explained before his appointment how he intends to resolve his conflict of interest relating to ownership of the Agrofert conglomerate. Pavel expressed confidence that the ANO leader would settle the matter conclusively within the next 30 days. Babiš thanked the President in a brief address and promised to devote his full strength to serving the public.
Nomination List Without Petr Turek
Babiš also submitted to the head of state the list of future ministers. The new cabinet is to be appointed at 9 a.m. on 15 December. However, the list does not include the originally proposed candidate Petr Turek from Motoristé sobě.
President Pavel had previously voiced reservations about Turek, who was intended for the environment ministry but is currently in hospital with severe back problems and therefore had to cancel a meeting with the President.
Government Meeting Before Christmas – Confidence Vote Possible on 13 January
After the appointment, the new cabinet intends to meet for the first time at the Straka Academy before the Christmas holidays – possibly even twice. A date for the vote of confidence in Parliament is emerging for 13 January. With 108 seats, ANO, SPD and Motoristé sobě hold a stable majority.
