Prague Sees Protest Against Motorists Party's Environment Minister Appointment

Prague, Czech Republic – Thousands of demonstrators convened in Hradčany Square today, October 19, 2025, to voice their strong opposition to the prospective appointment of a member from the Motorists for Themselves party to head the Environment Ministry in the newly forming Czech government. The protest follows a wave of criticism from environmental organizations and the scientific community regarding the party's stance on environmental policies.

New Government Coalition Sparks Controversy

The demonstration unfolds amidst the ongoing formation of a new coalition government in the Czech Republic, following the parliamentary elections held on October 3 and 4, 2025. The ANO party, led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, emerged victorious and is currently negotiating a coalition with the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) and the Motorists for Themselves party. Under the preliminary coalition agreement, the Motorists are slated to control several key ministries, including Foreign Affairs, Culture, and crucially, the Environment.

Motorists' Environmental Stance Under Scrutiny

The primary concern for protesters and environmental advocates is the Motorists for Themselves party's declared anti-environmental platform. The party, known for its right-wing populist and national conservative ideology, explicitly advocates for anti-environmentalism and Euroscepticism. Its program includes plans to:

• End support for renewable energy sources.
• Abandon the principle of 'no human interference' in national parks.
• Push for the abolition of green savings and subsidy programs aimed at reducing energy costs and improving air quality.

Petr Macinka, the leader of the Motorists, has been identified as the likely candidate for the Environment Minister portfolio. Critics highlight his past work with coal interests and opposition to renewable energy as disqualifying factors.

Widespread Opposition and Official Responses

The potential appointment has drawn significant condemnation from various sectors. More than 20 environmental organizations, including Greenpeace Czech Republic, Arnika, and People in Need, issued an open letter to Andrej Babiš, urging him to reconsider the nomination. They argue that the Motorists' environmental agenda is in direct conflict with the ANO party's own stated program and is 'the most anti-green of all parties'. Additionally, over 50 university professors and 400 scientists have signed a similar letter, calling for a candidate who can balance environmental protection with modern industry and rely on scientific knowledge.

In response to these concerns, Petr Macinka has dismissed the fears as unfounded, asserting that protecting nature remains a priority for his party, but arguing that some green regulations have become excessive. Andrej Babiš has also publicly stated that the coalition agreement clearly assigns the ministry to the Motorists and has labeled the environmentalists' demands as 'nonsensical'. Protesters in Hradčany Square today specifically urged President Petr Pavel to reject Macinka's nomination, citing his ties to the Václav Klaus Institute and opposition to EU climate measures.