General Pavel: Babiš’ populism is a threat to Czechia

General Petr Pavel, the hot favourite for the post of president in the 2023 election, has said Andrej Babiš' candidacy in the elections, announced on Sunday, is a threat to the country. General Pavel said that while he believes Babiš will bring a fresh wind to the debate, he considers his candidacy a threat to Czechia because of the populism that he personifies.

Prime Minister Petr Fiala said that Mr. Babiš is only seeking to gain immunity at Prague Castle because of the fraud charges against him. He said Czechia does not deserve a candidate like him.

ANO party leader Andrej Babiš on Sunday confirmed that he will run for president in the January 2023 election. Speaking to TV NOVA Mr. Babiš said the government’s inaction at a time of crisis had led him to accept the challenge. He said he would ask the party leadership to officially support his candidacy on Monday.