Czech news in brief for July 2: Thursday's top afternoon headlines

Another day, another development in Czechia's unfolding political drama. In an interview with local media, Prime Minister Andrej Babiš claimed President Petr Pavel's presence in the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara would damage the country's reputation. Babiš continued by saying that "we are trying to convince the president that this summit will be different from previous ones" and that his presence will therefore not be needed, according to the PM.

Small concession. Meanwhile, the government also slightly amended the composition of Pavel's entourage for the summit, partially addressing the president's request to be accompanied by more than one single aide.

The Constitutional Court and its judges have faced a wave of backlash and negative reactions after it issued a preliminary injunction siding with Pavel on the NATO debate. Threats, vulgarities and insults started flooding its social media pages, a spokeswoman for the court said, also criticizing a recent faked picture circulating online alleging close personal links between one of the judges and Pavel's top advisor.

The fire department has maintained its place as the most trusted institution among Czech citizens, according to a new STEM survey. High levels of trust (over 70 percent of the population) are also enjoyed by the police and the army, followed by the Czech National Bank, the Trade Inspectorate, the Supreme Audit Office, and municipal authorities.

National politicians are at the very bottom of the trustworthiness ranking, especially the government, the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. More than half of Czechs still trust President Pavel, according to the poll.

Train traffic between Prague and Moravia will be affected by constructions works throughout July. This includes restrictions on the route between Kolin and Řečany nad Labem from Sunday, and between Kolin and Přelouč from July 22. Long-distance trains could face delays as a result, and some regional trains will be replaced by buses on parts of the affected routes.

The obligation for large stores over 200 sqm to close their doors does not apply to the two upcoming public holidays this Sunday and Monday, the Czech Trade Inspectorate reminded today so that shoppers can plan their weekend calmly. Authorities nevertheless advised people to check the opening hours of their usual stores that may still decide to adapt their schedule.

When does it apply? This ban only applies on January 1, Easter Monday, May 8, September 28, October 28 and December 25-26.