22 Nov 2018 | 01:52 AM UTC
Czech Republic: Protests expected ahead of no-confidence vote Nov. 23
Further protests demanding resignation of Prime Minister Andrej Babiš expected in Prague ahead of no-confidence vote November 23; heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions possible
Event
Further protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Andrej Babiš are expected in Prague ahead of a no-confidence vote on his coalition government on Friday, November 23. Participants may gather at Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square, similar to related past demonstrations. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites.
Context
Thousands of protesters participated in similar demonstrations in Prague on November 15-17, demanding Babiš' resignation amid allegations that he committed subsidy fraud, receiving some EUR 2 million in EU subsidies over ten years ago. Babiš is expected to survive Friday's vote after the Social Democrats party announced they will abstain from the vote; the Communist Party had already announced their support for the government.
Advice
Individuals in Prague are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
