Andrej Babis Returns as Czech Prime Minister After Election Victory

Andrej Babis, the populist billionaire and leader of the ANO movement, has been sworn in as the Czech Republic’s new Prime Minister following his party’s strong performance in the October parliamentary elections. His return marks a major shift in national politics with a new coalition poised to alter the country’s domestic and foreign policy priorities.

Coalition Formation and Cabinet Structure

President Petr Pavel formally appointed Mr Babis after ANO secured a majority coalition with two smaller parties—the Freedom and Direct Democracy party and the Motorists for Themselves group. Together, the bloc commands 108 seats in the 200-seat Lower House. The coalition has agreed to a 16-member Cabinet, with ANO holding eight portfolios alongside the Prime Minister’s office.

Policy Direction Under the New Government

The incoming coalition is expected to reshape Czech policy, aligning more closely with Hungary and Slovakia on issues related to Ukraine and EU engagement. Members have criticised EU positions on migration and environmental rules. A reduced commitment to Ukraine is anticipated, signalling a departure from the outgoing government’s pro-Western stance.

Legal Challenges and Conflict-of-Interest Safeguards

Mr Babis continues to face fraud charges related to EU subsidies. The new Parliament will need to lift his immunity for the case to proceed. To address conflict-of-interest concerns, he has agreed to place his extensive Agrofert business empire under an independent trust. He also owns several medical enterprises, and a close ally from ANO is a contender for the Health Ministry.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Andrej Babis was sworn in as Czech Prime Minister on 9 December 2025.
• The ruling coalition comprises ANO, the Freedom and Direct Democracy party and Motorists for Themselves.
• The coalition holds 108 of 200 seats in the Lower House.
• Mr Babis has placed the Agrofert conglomerate under an independent trust to prevent conflicts of interest.

Implications for Czech Politics

The new coalition displaces the previous centre-right administration and marks a decisive shift towards populist and EU-sceptic governance. With significant political backing and a revised Cabinet structure, Mr Babis aims to reassert his influence while navigating legal scrutiny and recalibrating the country’s engagement on European and regional issues.