Former NATO general Petr Pavel becomes the new president of the Czech Republic. The 61-year-old – a career changer in politics – surprisingly clearly defeated the populist ex-premier Andrej Babis in the decisive second round. After counting 90 percent of the constituencies, Pavel was clearly ahead on Saturday afternoon with about 57 percent of the vote. The billionaire Babis accounted for almost 43 percent. The Liberal-Conservative head of government, Petr Fiala, has already congratulated Pavel on his victory.
At the beginning of March, the ex-military – formerly also chief of staff in the Czech Republic – follows the current president Milos Zeman (78), who often polarized with controversial statements. The head of state mainly has representative duties in the EU and NATO member states, but also appoints the government and is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Turnout was relatively high at around 70 percent of the vote.
From 2015 to 2018, Pavel was the first general from an eastern member state to chair NATO’s military committee. During the election campaign, he promised to bring “peace and order” back to the Czech Republic. The Russian war against Ukraine became the dominant theme. Pavel campaigned for further support from Kiev. “Russia must lose in Ukraine – also with our help,” he stressed.
Babis tried to portray the former paratrooper as a warmonger. He called for talks with Moscow and announced that Poland would not be supported by soldiers in the event of an attack. The current loser of the elections caused irritation at home and abroad.
Observers now expect not only a generation change, but also a change of style in Prague Castle, the seat of the president. Zeman often polarized with controversial statements about migrants, Muslims and the media. “My motto is: cooperation, decency and normal communication,” announced Pavel. “I think that’s what we’ve been missing a lot in recent years.” (dpa) (bzbasel.ch)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
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