Czech Political Parties Commence Government Formation Talks After Parliamentary Election

ANO Wins Election, Coalition Negotiations Underway

Following the parliamentary elections held on October 3 and 4, 2025, in the Czech Republic, political parties have officially begun discussions to form a new government. The ANO party, led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, secured a decisive victory, capturing approximately 34.5% to 37% of the vote. Despite this strong performance, ANO did not achieve an overall majority in the 200-seat Chamber of Deputies, necessitating coalition talks to establish a stable government.

Election Results and Key Parties

The election saw a high voter turnout, with ANO emerging as the largest party. The incumbent Spolu (Together) coalition, led by Prime Minister Petr Fiala, placed second with around 23% to 23.4% of the vote. Other parties that successfully entered parliament include:

• STAN (Mayors and Independents): Approximately 10.5% to 11.2% of the vote.
• Pirates: Around 8.7% to 9% of the vote.
• SPD (Freedom and Direct Democracy): Roughly 7.8% of the vote.
• Motorists (Motorists for Themselves): Securing between 6.8% and 7.6% of the vote.

ANO is projected to hold around 80 seats, while Spolu secured approximately 52 seats.

Potential Coalition Scenarios Emerge

Andrej Babiš has publicly stated his intention to negotiate with the SPD and Motorists parties to form a government. He has, however, ruled out discussions with parties from the outgoing government, specifically Spolu, STAN, and the Pirates. A potential coalition comprising ANO, SPD, and Motorists could command approximately 116 seats, providing a narrow majority in the 200-seat parliament, where 101 seats are required for a majority. This proposed alliance is seen by some as signaling a more Eurosceptic direction for the country, potentially aligning the Czech Republic with the stances of Hungary and Slovakia on certain issues. Despite this, Babiš has affirmed that he does not question the Czech Republic's membership in the European Union or NATO.

Presidential Oversight and Timeline

President Petr Pavel has engaged in talks with the leaders of the ANO party but has not yet formally tasked Andrej Babiš with forming a government. President Pavel indicated that it is premature to do so, emphasizing the importance of allowing parties sufficient time for thorough negotiations. He anticipates that the new government will be formed after the first session of the lower house of parliament, which is expected to convene in early November. President Pavel has also underscored the country's pro-Western orientation and its membership in the EU and NATO as fundamental priorities.