The year 2025 will mark a critical juncture for the Czech Republic, with the upcoming parliamentary elections set to determine the country’s future direction, stated Andrej Babiš, former Prime Minister and Vice-Chairman of the opposition ANO movement, in his New Year’s address. Babiš pledged to work tirelessly to unseat Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s government, labeling it as “incompetent, antisocial, arrogant, and dishonest.” “It’s enough to compare the costs of rent, food, medicine, transportation, and energy from 2021 to now. Due to the governing coalition’s complete ineptitude, everything has become about a third more expensive,” Babiš remarked, criticizing the government for the rise in living costs. He also claimed that Fiala’s administration has burdened the country with greater debt than the previous three and a half governments combined. Criticism of Government Policies Babiš accused Fiala’s cabinet of neglecting the needs of Czech citizens. “This government has increased taxes, raised the retirement age, and proposed higher TV and radio fees as well as salary hikes for top politicians—all while ignoring the struggles of ordinary citizens,” he said. For the former prime minister, the current government’s actions have consistently failed to prioritize the well-being of Czechs. “We have the experience, the expertise, and a proven track record of managing the country responsibly. Unlike this government, we understand the real needs of our citizens,” Babiš asserted. He also dismissed Fiala’s recent claim that his government could bring Czech wages closer to German levels, stating, “We don’t make empty promises. We only promise what we can deliver.” Babiš outlined ANO’s priorities: restarting the economy, curbing inflation, and improving the quality of life for citizens. The party aims to create a predictable business environment that encourages investment and innovation. “We will support traditional industries while fostering growth in new sectors like cryptocurrencies and start-ups,” Babiš noted. He emphasized that ANO is focused on winning the parliamentary elections to form the next government. “I believe 2025 will be a year of renewal, hope, and progress,” he concluded. Pirate Party Leader’s Critique Zdeněk Hřib, leader of the Pirates and former coalition partner turned opposition, also released a New Year’s message, stressing the elections’ significance. “We have a choice: continue stagnating and letting backroom deals dictate our economy and technological development, or enact real change,” Hřib stated. Hřib highlighted key issues such as the lack of affordable housing, low wages, and a struggling education system. “We are the only party free of corruption. Our time in government taught us that we must be more assertive in fighting for the public’s interests,” he said. The Pirates exited the five-party coalition last year following the dismissal of Deputy Prime Minister Ivan Bartoš. Prime Minister Fiala justified the move by citing inefficiencies in digitizing construction procedures. However, Hřib maintained that the Pirates’ focus remains on advocating for meaningful reform. “We must ensure that 2025 is the year when the Czech Republic steps forward rather than treading water,” Hřib added. A Year of High Stakes As the Czech Republic gears up for a pivotal election year, the political landscape is increasingly polarized. Babiš’s ANO is campaigning for a return to its governance model, emphasizing stability and economic growth, while Hřib’s Pirates are rallying for systemic reforms to address stagnation and inequality. Both leaders agree on one thing: 2025 will be a turning point for the country’s future. Source: CTK Photo: Andrej Babiš