Billionaire Andrej Babis Regains Power in Czech Republic

There is a stir in European politics due to Andrej Babis, the billionaire businessman and former Prime Minister of the Czech Republic. He is a populist figure who claims to be outside the system but draws power from it.

In the parliamentary elections held on October 3-4, his party ANO (Action of Dissatisfied Citizens) emerged as the largest party by securing 34.5% votes and 80 seats in the 200-member parliament. Though not a majority, this political advantage could lead him to power.

Babis resigned from the Prime Minister's post in 2021 amid corruption allegations. During his tenure, corruption and conflicts with the EU, along with public protests in Prague, were major issues.