Czech news in brief for January 21: Tuesday's top headlines

The Czech Republic’s opposition ANO movement will file a motion with the Constitutional Court to repeal recent pension reforms, chairwoman Alena Schillerová announced Tuesday. The reforms, criticized for alleged unconstitutional changes affecting workers in demanding professions, were passed controversially. Labor Minister Marian Jurečka defended the changes, asserting their legality. ANO’s experts are preparing the complaint, citing procedural issues. The government has faced ongoing scrutiny over the reform’s adoption process.

Czech President Petr Pavel met with Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović today to discuss Montenegro's EU membership and regional cybersecurity. Pavel emphasized the importance of EU enlargement for regional stability and prosperity, offering Czech support for Montenegro’s accession process. During his visit, Pavel honored victims of a recent mass shooting in Cetinje and discussed cultural ties. The leaders are set to launch a business forum later today. Later this week, Pavel will also visit Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

A Prague court ruled Tuesday that Robert Tempel, wrongfully imprisoned for a double murder last decade, is to receive nearly CZK 8.9 million in compensation. Tempel, released in 2021 after his life sentence was overturned, had sought 10 times the awarded amount. The Justice Ministry, which has already paid him CZK 3.6 million, disputes further payments, calling them excessive. Both parties may appeal the decision, which includes compensation for harsh prison conditions. 

Lynyrd Skynyrd will perform in Prague for the first time on July 7, 2025, at the O2 arena as part of their 50th-anniversary tour. Known for hits like Sweet Home Alabama, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers boast over 60 albums, billions of streams, and millions of records sold. The current lineup includes artists Johnny Van Zant and Rickey Medlocke. They have performed in major cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich in Germany.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský expressed eagerness to collaborate with newly confirmed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to strengthen ties and combat authoritarian regimes. Rubio, a Florida senator known for his firm stance on China, Iran, and Cuba, was unanimously confirmed by the Senate on Monday. Lipavský, attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, congratulated Rubio, emphasizing the need to address the "new axis of evil."

Police are investigating a report of threats made by a former employee of the Prague University of Life Sciences (CZU) on Tuesday morning. The individual, who allegedly attempted to enter the university building and holds a firearms license, is currently being sought by authorities. His whereabouts are unknown. The incident marks the third school-related police intervention in the Czech Republic in the space of three days.

Czech PM Petr Fiala congratulated Donald Trump on his return to the White House, calling the U.S. a key ally in security and trade. Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský pledged deeper transatlantic ties, while lower house vice speaker Jan Skopeček welcomed Trump as a "hope for change." Czech officials noted Trump's inaugural focus on domestic issues, with Minister of European Affairs Martin Dvořák observed the president's lack of foreign policy emphasis.

Popeyes will open its first restaurant in Brno at the end of March, located on Masarykova Street. The three-story venue will seat 123 guests and offer promotions for early customers. Popeyes aims to expand to 60 locations in Czechia by 2033. The Brno branch will be the first in Moravia, following four existing locations in Prague. Expansion to smaller cities and drive-thru locations is also planned.

A cable car at Czech ski resort in Telnice malfunctioned, leaving around 40 people stranded. Firefighters rescued 11 skiers, while others got down on their own. No injuries were reported. Authorities are investigating the technical fault. Resort operators said the lifts will operate without restrictions on Tuesday, but it is unclear if the cable car will reopen. The resort, built in 2013, serves 3,700 people per hour.

Education Minister Mikuláš Bek will present details of this year's secondary school admissions process today, alongside Cermat director Barbora Rosůlková. Applications can be submitted electronically or on paper from Feb. 1–20. Entrance exams for four-year programs will take place on April 11 and 14, with talent exams scheduled between March 17 and April 23. A mock test will be available in January.

The urns of Milan and Věra Kundera have been returned from Paris to Brno, where they will be kept at the Moravian Library until their final resting place is ready. The renowned writer's remains were brought by publisher Antoine Gallimard and former Czech ambassador Michal Fleischmann. The city is preparing a tombstone design to honor the couple’s legacy.