Opposition party obstructing new debate on Pandemic Law

The opposition Freedom and Direct Democracy Party is once again obstructing a debate on an amendment to the Pandemic Law, which was vetoed by the Senate last week. The amendment, which is to give the government broader powers to enforce restrictions without the need for a state of emergency, was criticized by some senators as being in violation of the Constitution.

The ruling coalition, which has a 108-seat majority in the lower house, is planning to override the Senate’s veto, in order to be able to extend some of the restrictions now in place after the validity of the present Pandemic Law expires at the end of February. Although the opposition does not have the power to prevent the bill’s approval, it is determined to delay the process for as long as possible. Health Minister Vlastimil Valek has warned that if the legislation is not approved in time, the government would have to declare a state of emergency.