On March 21, 2026, Prague witnessed a massive demonstration as hundreds of thousands gathered to voice their opposition to Prime Minister Andrej Babiš’s government. The protesters expressed concerns over perceived restrictions on opposition media and civil organizations, alongside calls for increased defense spending.
The rally, organized by the association “A Million Moments for Democracy,” took place in the Letná district and was titled “We Will Not Let Them Steal Our Future.” Organizers estimated the turnout at around 250,000 participants, who began assembling at 3 PM local time.
According to the organizers, the event aimed to raise awareness about what they termed the “erosion” of democracy and the oligarchization of society under Babiš’s leadership. The demonstrators carried signs and chanted slogans reflecting their discontent with the current political climate.
“I am here because I care about the future of my country… It saddens me that the current government is trying to manipulate free and independent media; freedom and democracy are paramount,” said protester Tomáš Halupka.
Another participant, Hana Malaníková, a teacher, voiced her fears that the Czech Republic might follow the paths of Hungary and Slovakia. “We do not want to become Hungary… We do not want to go the way of the Slovak Republic. It’s time to wake up,” she stated.
This protest follows a significant rally in February 2026, where citizens gathered to support President Petr Pavel, who had refused to endorse one of Babiš’s ministerial appointments.
Babiš’s government has faced scrutiny since the parliamentary elections in October 2025, where his party, ANO, won 34.5% of the vote, securing him the premiership. The 71-year-old politician is among the wealthiest individuals in the Czech Republic, with a net worth of $3.9 billion, according to Forbes. His business-oriented approach to governance has drawn comparisons to populist leaders like Italy’s Silvio Berlusconi and Hungary’s Viktor Orbán.
In recent statements, Babiš has emphasized that he views a true resolution to the conflict in Ukraine not through increased military aid but through diplomacy, while also labeling Russia as the aggressor in the situation.
A significant protest in Prague saw hundreds of thousands rally against Prime Minister Andrej Babiš's government, citing concerns over media freedom and defense spending. Organizers emphasized the need to protect democracy amid fears of oligarchization under Babiš's leadership.
Source: České Noviny