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Prague’s Biggest Protest Since 2019 Targets Babiš Government Plans

Organizers say the demonstration responds to parliament’s decision to preserve Andrej Babiš’s immunity in an EU‑subsidies fraud case.

People gather to take part in a large anti-government protest in Prague, Czech Republic, Saturday, March 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Michal Turek)
People gather to take part in a large anti-government protest in Prague, Czech Republic, Saturday, March 21, 2026. (AP Photo/Michal Turek)
Demonstrators take part in an anti-government protest rally in Prague, Czech Republic, March 21, 2026. REUTERS/Eva Korinkova
Demonstrators take part in an anti-government protest rally in Prague, Czech Republic, March 21, 2026. REUTERS/Eva Korinkova

Overview

  • Organizers put turnout between roughly 200,000 and 250,000 at Letná, making it the largest anti-government rally since 2019.
  • Protesters objected to planned defense spending cuts and proposed changes to public broadcaster funding that critics say would erode media independence.
  • Speakers warned that a proposed foreign‑agents‑style registration law for NGOs could be used to restrict civil society.
  • The Babiš-led coalition with Freedom and Direct Democracy and Motorists for Themselves has moved policy rightward, including rejecting EU financial aid for Ukraine and opposing EU migration and environment policies.
  • Parliament recently refused to lift Babiš’s immunity, delaying a potential trial until 2029, and declined to allow prosecution of Speaker Tomio Okamura, with organizers vowing more protests.