The opposition party ANO, led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babis, is set to become the biggest spender among Czech political parties for the upcoming European Parliament (EP) elections in June. The party plans to approach the legal limit, allocating close to CZK 50 million for its campaign, according to a statement from its spokesman to CTK.

In comparison, the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) and the Pirate Party are aiming for budgets of CZK 10 million each, while the Mayors and Independents (STAN) plan to spend CZK 15 million. The governing Spolu coalition, comprising the Civic Democrats (ODS), Christian Democrats (KDU-CSL), and TOP 09, is still in the process of negotiating its election funding, with expectations that it will not significantly differ from previous campaigns, according to ODS spokesman Jakub Skyva.

Christian Democrat MEP Tomas Zdechovsky has indicated that the Spolu coalition is considering a budget of CZK 30 million, to be administered by ODS. The coalition’s strategy involves engaging citizens through billboards, social media, and traditional media outlets. Online advertising and a strong emphasis on a contact campaign are also part of their plan.

ANO’s Martin Vodicka emphasized the significance of the European elections and stated that the party intends to combine an “online and outdoor” campaign, putting emphasis on the contact aspect. Similarly, the Pirates plan to allocate roughly CZK 10 million for their EP election campaign, focusing on a contact campaign and targeting younger voters online.

STAN, allocating CZK 15 million, views the contact campaign as crucial, and the extra-parliamentary Social Democracy (SOCDEM) plans to spend roughly CZK 8 million, emphasizing communication on social networks and a contact campaign. The Communists, part of the Stacilo! (“Enough!”) coalition, project a campaign fund of tens of millions of crowns, intending to use billboards, social networks, and discussions across the Czech Republic.

With the European Parliament elections set for June, parties are also planning budgets for other elections later in the year. STAN expects to spend CZK 20 million on the autumn regional elections, while the Pirates estimate CZK 2.5 million for the Senate elections. These financial considerations provide a glimpse into the competitive landscape of Czech politics as parties gear up for a series of crucial elections in 2024.

Article by Prague Forum