Czech news in brief for April 25: Saturday's top morning headlines

Motorists chairman and Foreign Minister Petr Macinka defended MP Filip Turek after criticism over remarks in which Turek called some ministry-linked figures “parasites” to be “exterminated.” Macinka said the comments targeted activists and nonprofit groups tied to ministries, not civil servants. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and Finance Minister Alena Schillerová called the language unacceptable. Trade unions demanded an apology, while opposition lawmakers urged Turek’s removal from his government advisory post.

Temperatures in Šumava fell below freezing again on Saturday morning, with the coldest reading in Czechia recorded at Perla near Kvilda at -8.7 degrees Celsius. Other parts of South Bohemia also saw frost and subzero temperatures, including Pohoří na Šumavě in the Novohradské Mountains at -6.5 degrees. Despite the cold start, Saturday is expected to be the warmest day of the week across Czechia, with sunny skies and highs reaching 21 degrees.

Justice Minister Jeroným Tejc has filed a criminal complaint over the recent bitcoin scandal following an internal audit, Czech Television reported, citing prosecutors. The case concerns a nearly one-billion-crown cryptocurrency donation accepted by the ministry and its later sale. Tejc suspects abuse of office and breach of trust, alleging procedural errors and financial losses during auctions and repurchase deals. The complaint has been submitted to the National Centre Against Organised Crime.

A spring food collection is taking place today across more than 3,500 shops in Czechia, allowing people to donate food and hygiene products to those in need. The one-day drive runs from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. nationwide. Donations will support seniors, single parents, families in crisis, homeless people and people with disabilities. Items such as pasta, rice, canned food, baby food and toiletries are most needed.

Stanislav Přibyl will be installed as the new Prague archbishop today during a solemn liturgy at St. Vitus Cathedral on Prague Castle. He replaces Jan Graubner, who is stepping down after reaching retirement age. The ceremony will be attended by hundreds of guests, including President Petr Pavel. Pope Leo XIV appointed Přibyl, who previously served as bishop of Litoměřice. He said he aims to act as a bridge between conservative and liberal currents within the Catholic Church.