Czech PM Fiala warns against fear mongering

Petr Fiala
  • Czech PM Fiala warns against fear mongering
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Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala (Civic Democratic Party) used his Christmas address to warn against fearmongering and the dangers of authoritarianism, calling for unity, responsibility, and perseverance. While Fiala highlighted his government’s achievements and urged citizens to resist negativity, opposition leaders dismissed the speech as overly political and lacking self-reflection.

Achievements and Warnings

Petr Fiala underscored his administration’s progress, citing pension reform, reduced inflation, investments in infrastructure, and continued support for Ukraine as major milestones. He also praised the nation’s response to catastrophic floods earlier in the year. "The steps we have taken are in the right direction," Fiala declared.

In a direct appeal to the public, the Prime Minister cautioned against the influence of social media critics, describing them as “fearmongers” who spread envy, hatred, and doubt. "Let us not believe fearmongers," Fiala urged, positioning himself as a defender of national unity against divisive forces.

Opposition Reaction

However, opposition leaders were quick to criticize the address. Karel Havlíček, deputy leader of the opposition ANO party, accused Fiala of turning the speech into a pre-election campaign. "I missed any kind of self-reflection or willingness to admit mistakes. The speech was used more as a campaign event before the general elections next autumn," Havlíček remarked.

Karel Havlíček | Photo: Zuzana Jarolímková,  iROZHLAS.cz

Political analyst Jiří Pehe of New York University in Prague described the speech as relatively standard for a Prime Minister at the end of the year. "It was a balanced speech, the kind one would expect around Christmas," Pehe noted. However, he acknowledged that with elections looming in 2024, this was likely Fiala’s last major address, creating expectations that he might offer more concrete goals for the future – something Pehe believes was missing.

Balancing Politics and Personality

Pehe pointed out the inherent challenge in Fiala’s position. "The Prime Minister is giving a speech that blends elements of what the President, as someone above political parties, would normally say, with the political messaging of a party leader. It's difficult for him to avoid statements that will be interpreted as campaigning," Pehe explained. Despite the political undertones, Pehe observed that Fiala refrained from direct attacks on the opposition, apart from vague references to political forces “peddling fear.”

Petr Fiala | Photo: Office of Czech Government

The Professor Turned Politician

Reflecting on Fiala’s delivery, Pehe highlighted the Prime Minister’s struggle to embody a more charismatic public persona. "Fiala speaks as one would expect from a university professor. He is dry and finds it hard to craft the kind of rousing speech one expects from a seasoned politician," Pehe said. Attempts by Fiala to soften his image, including appearances in casual attire without a tie, were met with ridicule from the opposition.

Jiří Pehe | Photo: Kateřina Cibulka,  Czech Radio

"Speaking in a white shirt, trying to appear folksy, isn’t his style. This speech saw him return to what he does best – a more reserved, academic tone that aligns with his personality," Pehe added.

In Pehe’s view, Fiala’s effort to mirror the social media strategies of figures like Andrej Babiš and Alena Schillerová – known for their populist and relatable style – felt unnatural. "He is indeed a university professor, and that’s what people are used to. His previous attempts to change this image weren’t successful. In my opinion, it’s good that he went back to what he knows."

Author: Vít Pohanka | Source: Radio Prague International
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