News: Saturday, November 9th, 2024

Hřib replaces Bartoš as leader of the Czech Pirate Party

Former Prague mayor and current deputy mayor Zdeněk Hřib has been elected as the new leader of the Czech Pirate Party, defeating ex-senator Lukáš Wagenknecht. Hřib aims to reform the party to strengthen its position in the upcoming parliamentary elections. He envisions the Pirates as a strong, centrist-liberal force in the Chamber of Deputies, where they currently hold four seats. Hřib succeeds Ivan Bartoš, who led the party for nearly 15 years but resigned after recent electoral setbacks. In a symbolic gesture, Bartoš wished Hřib success and handed him the party’s “helm” at the leadership transition.

Activists occupy dairy farm in protest over animal conditions

A group of around 60 activists occupied a dairy barn in Česká Jablonná, near Přibyslav, on Havlíčkův Brod district, today to protest what they consider inhumane conditions for the animals. They split into two groups, with one inside the barn documenting conditions and the other displaying banners outside.

The protest follows disturbing footage released by the group Zvířata nejíme, showing abuse of animals on Czech farms. Activists, who plan to stay on-site for several hours, hope to raise awareness of the treatment of dairy cows. Local residents and farm representatives have responded critically to the protest.

Pavel to sign pension reform if approved by Senate

President Petr Pavel told Czech TV he would sign the pension reform bill if it passes the Senate. Approved by the Chamber of Deputies, the controversial reform gradually raises the retirement age to 67. While the coalition argues the reform will secure funds for future pensions and reduce deficits, opposition parties ANO and SPD vow to repeal many changes if they gain power. The bill includes a phased reduction in the earnings factor for calculating pensions between 2026 and 2035, and allows earlier retirement only for select high-risk workers. Senate review is the next step, with the coalition holding a majority.

Roma community in Náchod protests for safety after attack on young man

Dozens of Roma gathered in Eastern Bohemian town of Náchod, expressing concern for their safety following an assault on a young Roma man. Organized by Roma Association Náchod, the protest was attended by family members, including the victim’s grandmother, who voiced fears for the safety of Roma children.

The incident, involving a verbal altercation that escalated into violence, occurred on November 3, leaving the 20-year-old man with minor injuries. Police are investigating the case as possible disorderly conduct and assault, with efforts ongoing to identify all parties involved. Officers monitored the peaceful demonstration to ensure safety.

President Pavel: Europe must boost defense spending to protect values

Europe needs to increase and improve defense spending to protect its values and security, Czech President Petr Pavel stated at the Prague Defence Summit. He argued that the current target of 2% of GDP is insufficient. Pavel emphasized the importance of readiness for military, cyber, and disinformation threats, calling for stronger NATO coordination and technological cooperation. The war in Ukraine, he said, underscores the urgent need for a reinforced NATO eastern flank and highlights the importance of a strong transatlantic alliance to counter authoritarian threats.

Weather

Weather in Czechia on Sunday will be mostly clear, with areas of fog, initially freezing or low clouds, which will persist all day, especially in Bohemia. In the evening, fog and low clouds will gradually spread across most of the country. Highs between 6 and 10°C.