Czechia's Babiš Favoured to Win Elections, Despite Wealth and Scandal
Czechia is set to elect a new parliament this weekend, with Andrej Babiš and his ANO party favoured to win. Babiš, a billionaire businessman, has positioned himself as the voice of the people despite his establishment background.
Babiš, who founded ANO in 2011, has campaigned in a casual style, favouring jeans, sneakers, and hoodies. He prefers small gatherings and personal interactions, signing autographs and posing for selfies. His message is one of rebellion against the political elite, despite his own wealth and political experience.
Babiš has been compared to populist leaders like Donald Trump and Viktor Orbán. He has portrayed himself as a champion of the poor and downtrodden, despite his fortune amassed in the 'wild 1990s' following communism's collapse. His estimated net worth is around $3.5 billion (€3 billion).
The Stork's Nest case, an alleged corruption scandal, has dogged Babiš for nearly a decade. A recent ruling in June 2023 ordered the case to be reopened.
If elected, Babiš will face challenges from both within his party and opposition. His populist rhetoric and casual campaign style have resonated with voters, but his wealth and the ongoing Stork's Nest case may also present hurdles in governing.
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