Czech billionaire and populist leader Andrej Babis has led his ANO movement to a decisive win in the country’s 2025 parliamentary elections, signaling a potential shift in Central Europe’s political balance and stirring debate over Prague’s future ties with the European Union and NATO.

At ANO’s headquarters in Prague, Chairman Babis, flanked by Deputy Chairman Karel Havlicek and Deputy Chairwoman Alena Schillerova, celebrated the victory late Saturday, calling it a mandate for “a stronger and more prosperous Czechia.”

With nearly all ballots counted, ANO secured around 34.7% of the vote, outpacing the ruling Spolu coalition, which trailed at 23.2%, according to the national Statistical Office. The result positions Babis to return to power after four years in opposition — though forming a stable government remains uncertain.

“We’re ready to lead and take responsibility,” Babis told jubilant supporters. “ANO will seek to form a one-party cabinet, but we are open to discussions with other patriotic forces to ensure stability.” Among possible allies are the far-right SPD and the Motorists, both known for their skepticism toward EU environmental regulations.

Outgoing Prime Minister Petr Fiala conceded defeat and congratulated Babis, marking a clear end to his center-right government.

Economic Promises and Populist Appeal

During the campaign, Babis pledged to deliver higher wages, better pensions, lower taxes, and support for students and young families, promising to reverse austerity measures that have strained ordinary households. His populist message found fertile ground among voters frustrated by rising living costs and inflation.

Critics, however, warn that his expansive pledges could strain public finances, costing billions of euros.

Legal and Political Hurdles

Babis still faces legal battles that could complicate his return as prime minister, including long-standing fraud allegations linked to an EU subsidy — charges he firmly denies. As owner of a vast agriculture and chemicals empire, he must also navigate conflict-of-interest laws designed to limit business influence in government.

A Trump-Style Nationalist Vision

Often compared to Donald Trump, Babis has rebranded himself as a defender of “ordinary Czechs,” promoting his slogan “Strong Czechia” — a nod to Trump’s “Make America Great Again.” An ally of Hungary’s Viktor Orban, he is part of the Patriots for Europe alliance in the European Parliament, which seeks to challenge the EU’s mainstream direction on immigration and climate policy.

Although he has ruled out a referendum on leaving the EU or NATO, Babis has pledged to end the Czech initiative that coordinates arms supplies to Ukraine, arguing that aid should instead be managed through official EU and NATO channels.