On October 6, 2025, the Czech Republic’s political landscape shifted dramatically as Andrej Babiš, a billionaire businessman and former prime minister, clinched a commanding victory in the country’s parliamentary elections. With over 34% of the vote and 80 seats in the 200-member Lower House, Babiš and his ANO movement have reaffirmed their dominance, despite a campaign season marked by skepticism and surprise, according to Vreme and The Free Press.
Babiš, sometimes dubbed “the Czech Trump” for his populist style and business background, had previously served as prime minister from 2017 to 2021. His return to the forefront of Czech politics comes at a time of widespread disaffection with the outgoing pro-Western liberal coalition. Public opinion polls had predicted a much tighter race, suggesting that ANO might struggle to break the 30% threshold. But the final results surpassed expectations, with Babiš’s party securing more than a third of the national vote. Voter turnout soared to 69%, the highest the Czech Republic has seen since 1998, as reported by Vreme.
Much of Babiš’s success can be attributed to his ability to mobilize voters in economically vulnerable regions—areas hit hardest by inflation and the ongoing energy crisis. By positioning himself as a pragmatic alternative to the ruling coalition, Babiš tapped into the frustrations of those feeling left behind by recent economic upheavals. “We are heading towards a minority government. It will be clear in a week. We will solve everything. We will start negotiations with the SPD and Motoristi on support for our government,” Babiš told Vreme, signaling his intent to move quickly in forming a new administration.
His victory, however, has raised questions both at home and abroad. Babiš’s approach is notably different from the more radical, anti-system populists who have risen elsewhere in Central Europe. While he has criticized the European Union and the pro-Western establishment, he has stopped short of advocating for a Czech exit from either the EU or NATO. “That’s nonsense,” he stated recently, making clear his intention to maintain the country’s Western alliances, even as he courts support from more euroskeptic parties.
Babiš’s coalition strategy centers on negotiations with the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) party and Motorists for Themselves, a right-wing, euroskeptic group that crossed the electoral threshold for the first time this year. The SPD is known for its opposition to the EU’s Green Deal, the Migration Pact, increased military spending, and ongoing support for Ukraine. The party has also called for national referendums on leaving both the EU and NATO. Motoristi, meanwhile, are eager to secure key ministries and have made it clear they expect a significant role in the new government.
Despite these alliances, Babiš has drawn clear lines in the sand. He has insisted that key portfolios—especially healthcare—will remain under the control of ANO. “We will not leave healthcare to anyone, it is an absolute priority for us,” Babiš told the Czech portal Novinky, emphasizing that while some ministries may be offered to coalition partners, the most critical departments will not be up for negotiation. This approach is emblematic of Babiš’s pragmatic, businesslike style: he’s willing to make deals, but only on his own terms.
International observers are watching closely to see how Babiš’s government will handle the ongoing war in Ukraine. During the campaign, Babiš struck a critical tone toward military aid to Kyiv and increases in the defense budget, stoking concerns about Prague’s future commitment to Ukraine. According to The Free Press, “There is concern about whether Prague’s strong support for Ukraine will continue under Babiš’s leadership.” Still, it appears unlikely that the Czech Republic will completely withdraw support, particularly for initiatives like the purchase of ammunition for Ukraine, which was spearheaded by the outgoing government and financed by other Western nations. Even President Petr Pavel, a former NATO general, has urged Babiš not to undermine these efforts.
Babiš’s pragmatism extends to his relationships with other Central European leaders. Unlike his counterparts in Slovakia and Hungary—Robert Fico and Viktor Orbán, both known for their ideological stances—Babiš is seen as a dealmaker rather than a crusader. His “correct relations” with both Fico and Orbán could, some analysts suggest, help revive the Visegrad Group (V4), a regional alliance that has languished in recent years, according to Vreme.
Yet Babiš’s return to power is not without its complications. He faces a looming conflict of interest over his ownership of the Agrofert holding, a sprawling conglomerate with interests in agriculture, chemicals, and media. Czech law requires him to resolve this issue within 30 days of his appointment as prime minister. Babiš has already presented some options to President Pavel and pledged to find a solution, but the outcome remains to be seen.
For the outgoing liberal-civilian coalition Spolu (Together), the election was a setback but not a total defeat. With about 23% of the vote, they retain a significant presence in parliament and are expected to play a key role in opposition. The record turnout, meanwhile, reflects a country deeply engaged in its political future, even as uncertainty lingers over the direction Babiš will take.
In the broader European context, Babiš’s win has sparked debate about the rise of populism and the future of the EU. His blend of moderate populism, business acumen, and pragmatic dealmaking sets him apart from more hardline figures elsewhere on the continent. Still, with coalition talks ongoing and the fate of Czech policy on everything from Ukraine to the EU’s Green Deal hanging in the balance, the coming weeks will be critical.
As the Czech Republic awaits the formation of its next government, one thing is clear: Andrej Babiš’s brand of politics—part populist, part pragmatist—has struck a chord with voters seeking stability and change in equal measure. Whether that formula can deliver on the country’s most pressing challenges remains to be seen, but for now, Babiš is firmly back at the center of Czech political life.
