On December 15, 2025, Czech President Petr Pavel formally appointed a new government at Prague Castle, led by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš of the ANO movement. The ceremony marked the completion of the government formation process following ANO's victory in the October 3-4 parliamentary elections. The new cabinet, comprising 16 members including four deputy prime ministers, is supported by a coalition of ANO, the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD), and the right-wing Motorists for Themselves party, commanding a majority of 108 seats in the 200-seat Chamber of Deputies.
In his address during the appointment ceremony, President Pavel expressed satisfaction that the process concluded within the agreed timeframe and adhered to constitutional norms. "I am very pleased that today we are concluding the process of forming and appointing a new government," Pavel stated, noting the cabinet's formation by the December 15 deadline previously discussed with Babiš. He highlighted individual consultations with nearly all incoming ministers to discuss their policy priorities and ministry leadership, describing these as a standard procedure to clarify expectations.
Pavel acknowledged the challenging context in which the government assumes power, characterized by international tensions, economic uncertainties, and high domestic expectations. He urged the cabinet to foster societal unity and provide citizens with stability and clear direction. Emphasizing foreign policy, Pavel stressed that Czech security and prosperity are inextricably linked to NATO and EU membership. "Our country would undoubtedly not be more secure if we were not part of NATO, just as it would be less economically prosperous and stable if we were not members of the European Union," he said, calling for the government to act as a responsible and constructive partner in both organizations, offering proposals even amid disagreements.
The president also vowed close monitoring of the government's commitment to democratic principles, particularly the independence of public media, judiciary, prosecutors, and security services.
The coalition's formation followed ANO's electoral win with approximately 34.5-35% of the vote, securing around 80 seats. Babiš was initially appointed prime minister on December 9, after resolving conflict-of-interest concerns by pledging to transfer his Agrofert conglomerate to a trust structure. The full cabinet appointment on December 15 included adjustments, such as Motorists leader Petr Macinka temporarily heading both the Foreign and Environment Ministries due to health issues preventing Filip Turek's inclusion.
Key deputy prime ministers include Karel Havlíček (Industry and Trade, ANO, designated First Deputy), Alena Schillerová (Finance, ANO), Petr Macinka (Foreign Affairs, Motorists), and Jaromír Zůna (Defence, SPD). The government is expected to seek a confidence vote in the lower house on January 13, 2026.
This shift replaces the previous centre-right coalition under Petr Fiala, which was strongly pro-Ukrainian and pro-EU. Analysts note the new administration may reduce support for Ukraine, including potential cuts to military aid and reconsideration of the Czech-led ammunition procurement initiative, while prioritizing domestic issues like energy costs and pensions. The coalition has ruled out referendums on EU or NATO membership but is critical of certain EU policies on migration and climate.
Babiš, a 71-year-old billionaire returning to the premiership after serving from 2017-2021, has pledged to defend Czech interests robustly. The development aligns the Czech Republic closer to populist governments in Hungary and Slovakia, potentially influencing EU dynamics.
