Given the expected projections, it is also to be expected that Pavel’s share of votes will continue to grow. First to be counted are smaller polling places in regions where Babiš and his ANO movement have better approval ratings. Only later will it be the turn of polling stations in larger cities and especially in the capital Prague, where traditionally people tend to vote against Babiš.
Miloš Zeman steps down in March after ten years
Final preliminary results of the runoff election are expected in the early evening. The current head of state, Miloš Zeman, will step down after ten years in early March.
In the Czech Republic, which is a member of both the EU and NATO, the president has predominantly representative functions. He also appoints the government and constitutional judges. He is also the supreme commander of the armed forces. During the election campaign, Babiš tried to portray Pavel as a warmonger. The former chief of staff spoke out in favor of continued support for Ukraine in the fight against Russia.