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Andrej Babiš, the self-proclaimed tycoon who won the recent Czech election, has declined to sell his extensive business interests, while insisting he will address a conflict of interest that could block him from taking the role of head of government.

Stance on Business Holdings

Babiš, whose ANO party came first in the autumn vote but did not secure a parliamentary majority, stated in a social media post that he would not sell his Agrofert conglomerate, which is active in agriculture, food processing, and chemicals.

“I have consistently said I will never sell Agrofert. I have consistently stated I will resolve the conflict of interest in accordance with Czech and EU regulations,” the billionaire remarked. “This is different from selling a roll in a bakeshop.”

Head of State's Requirement

The Czech president, Petr Pavel, stated that the 71-year-old political figure must clarify openly how he will eliminate ethical conflicts arising from his corporate dealings before being appointed prime minister.

The Czech constitution “explicitly requires the president to consider the possible emergence of a ethical issue and the ways to address it” when appointing government ministers, Pavel's office explained.

The head of state “expects clarity in what specific way Andrej Babiš will meet his statutory duties”, the announcement said, stating that Pavel was ready to designate Babiš as premier “without delay” once the matter was resolved.

Corporate Activities and Legal Concerns

Babiš's numerous firms, primarily under the Agrofert umbrella, function in the Czech Republic and other central European countries, receiving substantial funds in domestic and European farming and other subsidies, as well as government deals.

Under Czech law, cabinet members are barred from receiving public aid or contracts. The anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International has stated that to avoid a ethical breach, Babiš must either sell, decline public contracts, or stay out of public office.

Previous Term and Present Intentions

Babiš affirmed he would “follow the regulations” if appointed as premier, but declined to explain how in beforehand because the matter was “an extremely sensitive and private affair for me, and the media will always question me anyway”.

During his initial tenure as premier, from 2017 to 2021, Babiš encountered multiple legal battles and an EU investigation over potential ethical issues. He temporarily moved his holdings into trust funds, while retaining certain control over them.

A court and the European Commission both determined that this was insufficient. Babiš stated recently that he was again the exclusive proprietor of Agrofert and maintained he was “implementing measures” to avoid a conflict of interest, but declined to reveal details.

Governing Agreement and International Implications

The wealthy politician has concluded a governing pact with two rightwing fringe parties, the ultra-conservative, Russia-friendly SPD, which has advocated a public vote on leaving the EU, and the Motorists for Themselves, which has primarily campaigned against the EU’s environmental policy.

The incoming administration, if approved, is expected to strengthen the populist movement in the region and might strain backing from Western nations for Ukraine – even though Babiš has contacted Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to confirm of Czech support.

Pavel, who as head of state shares responsibility for international relations, also requested that the government agenda include a statement on the official stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine, with a pledge to fulfilling Nato obligations.

The president has previously stated he would not endorse any cabinet candidates who might doubt the Czech Republic’s international alliances, a requirement that the far-right SPD has said it will meet by proposing independent technocrats.