ODS reshuffles leadership, pledges to strengthen party brand

The Civic Democrats (ODS) elected a largely new leadership at its weekend congress in Prague. The opposition party chose former transport minister Martin Kupka as its new leader, replacing former prime minister Petr Fiala after 12 years at the helm.

Kupka was joined in the party leadership by Prague 9 mayor Tomáš Portlík, who was elected first deputy chairman. Delegates also elected MP Karel Haas, former environment minister Pavel Drobil, Senator Martin Červíček, and MEP Alexandr Vondra as vice-chairmen.

Kupka said ODS would ensure continuity while modernising the party and strengthening its distinct brand within the Spolu alliance. He stated that the party would focus on the middle class and entrepreneurs, advocate lower taxes on labour, and push for reforms in healthcare and education.

The party also reaffirmed its pro-Western orientation, expressing continued support for Ukraine and backing the modernisation of national defence.