Babis in Coalition Talks: Czech Government on Brink of Change

The ANO party, spearheaded by Andrej Babis, is actively engaging in coalition discussions with two smaller factions to establish a new government by early November. Babis aims to consolidate power after winning the October elections, indicating a potential shift from the center-right leadership of outgoing Prime Minister Petr Fiala.

Negotiations are underway with the right-wing, eurosceptic Motorists and the far-right SPD parties, aiming to secure a parliamentary majority with 108 seats. Babis anticipates the coalition agreement draft by week's end, ahead of the first parliamentary session on November 3, where a new house speaker will be elected following the outgoing cabinet's formal resignation.

While Babis plans to reconsider a Czech arms initiative aiding Ukraine under Western funding, he faces pressure from President Petr Pavel to sustain the program. Babis has softened his initial opposition, recognizing the initiative's potential, despite SPD's rejection and Motorists' support. Future policy directions include rejecting an EU emissions system and revising immigration agreements.

(With inputs from agencies.)