Massive Prague Protest Against Babiš Government Over Democracy Concerns
Tens of thousands of demonstrators gathered in Prague on Saturday to voice strong opposition to the policies and plans of the new Czech government led by populist Prime Minister Andrej Babiš. The peaceful protest, held at Letná Park, drew participants from across the Czech Republic to express fears that Babiš and his coalition Cabinet pose a significant threat to democratic values.
Historical Echoes and Democratic Fears
Letná Park, a historic site of massive gatherings in 1989 that helped topple communism, served as the backdrop for this latest demonstration. Organizers estimated the crowd at approximately 200,000 people, many waving Czech national flags and carrying banners with messages like “Let’s defend democracy.” The protest highlighted concerns that the billionaire prime minister is steering the country away from supporting Ukraine and toward an autocratic path, aligning with leaders in Slovakia and Hungary.
Mikuláš Minář, head organizer from the Million Moments for Democracy group, stated, “We’re here to clearly stand against dragging our country onto the path of Slovakia and Hungary,” referencing the pro-Russia and autocratic leanings observed in those nations. Babiš returned to power after his ANO movement won big in the October election, forming a coalition with the Freedom and Direct Democracy anti-migrant party and the right-wing Motorists for Themselves.
Controversial Policies and Legislative Plans
The new government has begun redefining foreign and domestic policies, with Babiš opposing key European Union measures on environment and migration. He has also rejected financial aid for Ukraine and guarantees for EU loans to the country fighting Russian invasion, joining ranks with Prime Ministers Viktor Orbán of Hungary and Robert Fico of Slovakia. Critics point to several controversial plans, including a bill inspired by a Russian law on foreign agents that would require NGOs and individuals involved in vaguely defined political activity receiving foreign aid to register or face hefty fines.
Václav Pačes, former head of the Academy of Sciences, warned the crowd, “This law can easily be used to restrict personal freedom.” Additionally, the government is preparing to change the funding of public radio and television, a move many fear would grant the government control over broadcasters, further eroding media independence.
Legal Immunity and National Division
Organizers decided to hold the rally following a recent decision by the lower house of parliament to reject a motion to lift Babiš’s immunity from prosecution in a $2 million fraud case involving EU subsidies. Approval would have allowed a court to issue a verdict soon, but the rejection means he can only stand trial after his term expires in 2029. Lawmakers also refused to allow prosecution of lower house Speaker Tomio Okamura, head of the Freedom party, on charges of inciting hatred.
The Million Moments group argued these decisions divide the nation into two categories: “the ordinary people and the untouchables.” Michael Černohlávek, a 19-year-old student, expressed his motivation: “I came to defend something that is extremely important to me. I know that the system we have, our freedom, can’t be taken for granted and it is important for me to protect it.”
With more protests planned, the demonstration underscores growing public unease over the direction of the Czech Republic under Babiš’s leadership, highlighting a pivotal moment for democracy in the region.
