The top echelons of the coalition government are scheduled to convene for a critical meeting aimed at addressing mounting tensions and resolving pressing issues that have strained relations within the coalition. The catalyst for this meeting was the recent unilateral move by Minister for European Affairs Martin Dvořák (STAN), who appointed economist Petr Zahradník as the plenipotentiary for the euro’s introduction, reportedly without consulting other government members.

The coalition aims to address a range of contentious issues, seeking to “clear the table” of unresolved disputes, as stated by Klára Kocmanová, the first Deputy Chair of the Pirate Party. Among these issues is the dissatisfaction of the Pirates regarding their absence from the supervisory boards of certain state bodies.

Additionally, concerns have been raised about the activities of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Vít Rakušan (STAN). Criticisms have surfaced over his perceived distancing from the government’s communication strategy and his regional debates, which are viewed by coalition partners as election campaigning. Kocmanová warns against actions that could undermine the coalition’s stability, emphasizing the importance of unity over electoral pursuits.

However, STAN Deputy Chair Michaela Šebelová contests the necessity of the meeting, expressing confusion over Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s decision to convene it. Šebelová defends Dvořák’s appointment of Zahradník, portraying it as an attempt to reignite a constructive dialogue on the euro, which she believes has stagnated within the government.

In light of the simmering tensions, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies and TOP 09 member Markéta Pekarová Adamová voices concerns about avoiding a scenario akin to Slovakia, where coalition disputes led to early elections and the ascent of populists. While the outcome of the discussion remains uncertain, speculation looms over the possibility of pushing for Dvořák’s dismissal, a move that Šebelová suggests would be met with support from STAN.

As the coalition prepares to confront its internal challenges, the meeting underscores the imperative of cohesive governance and collective decision-making in navigating turbulent political waters.

Article by Prague Forum