In an article for MF DNES and iDNES.cz, the leader of the ANO movement sharply criticized the new law supported by Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s government. According to Babiš, the law poses a threat to democratic freedoms and recalls methods of the communist past.
Babiš stated that the Lex Ukraine law, approved by the Senate, essentially introduces criminal liability for intentions and threatens freedom of speech. Under the law, individuals can face up to five years in prison for threatening the constitutional order, sovereignty, or security of the Czech Republic.
Moreover, the politician noted that journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens could be targeted for criticizing the government, the EU, or sharing information deemed inappropriate.
The ANO leader highlighted three main issues with the law. First, the law’s provisions are overly vague, allowing for arbitrary enforcement. Second, punishing intentions is characteristic of totalitarian regimes, not democratic societies. Third, existing laws are sufficient to address real threats, such as espionage or treason.
Babiš also criticized the Senate for its approval process, calling it a procedural fiasco. He described the law’s passage as the most significant attack on freedom of speech since 1989. The politician argued that Fiala’s government, while promoting democracy, demonstrates hypocrisy by violating democratic principles.
Babiš pledged that if ANO comes to power, it will seek to repeal Lex Ukraine and other decisions made by Fiala’s government. He also announced plans to appeal to the Constitutional Court to challenge the law.
