TOP09 co-founder Kalousek ends his party membership

Miroslav Kalousek, co-founder and former chairman of TOP 09, has confirmed his resignation from the party, the Czech News Agency reported on Tuesday. Mr. Kalousek cited differences in views with the party's current leadership as the reason for his decision. He declined to comment on speculation about his future political activities, including the potential formation of a new political party.

Kalousek stepped down from active politics in 2021 after more than 20 years in the Chamber of Deputies, stating that he wanted to make way for the emerging Together coalition, comprising the Civic Democrats, Christian Democrats and TOP 09. As a former finance minister, he has been a vocal critic of the government's economic policies.

Late last year, TOP 09 decided not to include Kalousek on its list of candidates for the European Parliament elections within the Together coalition, despite receiving support from regional organizations for his candidacy.