Czech news in brief for September 30: Monday's top headlines

President Petr Pavel will meet with leaders of the five coalition parties today to discuss the government crisis following Prime Minister Petr Fiala's (ODS) proposal to dismiss Deputy PM Ivan Bartoš (Pirates) over mismanaged construction digitization. The Pirates are voting on leaving the coalition. Fiala aims to finalize the coalition's structure and restore government stability within 14 days. Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský's future remains uncertain, although outgoing Pirates leader Bartoš predicted Lipavský will resign.

Senate Speaker Milos Vystrcil awarded silver medals to 13 recipients, including the Faculty of Arts at Charles University, actor Ivan Trojan, former diplomat Michael Zantovsky, and tapolitika.cz founder Lenka Benesova. The honors, presented annually since 2012 on St. Wenceslas Day, recognize contributions to society. Vystrcil praised the recipients' dedication to helping others and emphasized the importance of courage, truth, and community support.

Polish President Andrzej Duda faces criticism from the press and ruling party politicians for attending former Czech President Milos Zeman’s 80th birthday, known for his pro-Russian stance. Duda’s critics argue his presence undermines his pro-Western image, while supporters view it as proof of his political influence. Zeman’s party also saw attendance from other Central and Eastern European leaders sympathetic to Russia.

Damage from recent floods in the Czech Republic will exceed CZK 30 billion, Finance Minister Zbyněk Stanjura said on Czech TV. Key sectors include CZK 15 billion for water management and CZK 10 billion for state infrastructure. The government increased the 2024 budget deficit to CZK 282 billion for flood recovery, with aid for households, businesses, and local governments. Support includes financial relief and loan guarantees for affected companies.

Dry autumn weather will give way to increased cloudiness and precipitation starting Monday. Ground frosts are possible in the northeast early in the week, followed by below-average temperatures and frequent rain throughout the workweek. Temperatures will range from 12 to 17°C during the day. The weather is expected to improve slightly by Sunday, with partly cloudy skies and milder conditions.