Pro-Western Opposition Sweeps Czech Senate Vote, Undermining Babiš Coalition

Pro-Western opposition parties secured 22 of the 27 Senate seats contested in the two-round election for one-third of the 81-member upper house. The centrist ANO (or YES) movement, led by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, failed to win any of the contested seats and lost the single seat it previously held. The opposition therefore retained control of the Senate, while Babiš’s coalition partners also emerged empty-handed.

WRALPro-Western opposition wins big in Czech Senate election, dealing a blow to populist PM Babiš Pro-Western Opposition Wins Big In Czech Senate, Blows To PM Andrej Babiš Coalition: 6 outlets compared

The Senate vote marks the first electoral test for Babiš since his governing coalition won a decisive parliamentary majority in October 2025. The coalition, formed with two small parties, has pursued a platform that includes reducing financial support for Ukraine and rejecting certain European Union policies. Although the lower house dominates legislation, the Senate plays a key role in approving constitutional amendments and confirming judges of the Constitutional Court.

WRALPro-Western opposition wins big in Czech Senate election, dealing a blow to populist PM Babiš Pro-Western Opposition Wins Big In Czech Senate, Blows To PM Andrej Babiš Coalition: 6 outlets compared

Prime Minister Babiš described the outcome as “catastrophic” and said his movement did not expect to lose every Senate contest. He announced that his government will analyse the losses but will continue to pursue its agenda, notably the planned overhaul of the public-broadcaster funding model.

WRAL

Despite the setback, Babiš affirmed that his administration will press ahead with its reform program. The opposition’s strengthened Senate presence is likely to shape upcoming debates on constitutional changes and the future of public-media financing, setting the stage for further political contestation ahead of the next electoral cycle.

WRAL