Communists confirm decision to cease supporting state of emergency

The leadership of the Communist Party confirmed after a meeting on Friday evening that they would not back the extension of a state of emergency. The Communists support the minority coalition on key votes and the government’s system of Covid measures is contingent on a state of emergency being in place.

The Communists say, however, that the government can issue rules restrictions without the need for such legislation. They say that the government has had since October to make efforts to ensure a state of emergency is not required.

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš says if the state of emergency – which expires on February 14 – is not extended the country’s healthcare system could collapse, putting lives at risk.