Andrej Babiš Assaulted at Election Rally in Czech Republic

Dobrá, Czech Republic — Andrej Babiš, the former prime minister of Czechia and leader of the ANO party, was struck on the head with a metal crutch during an election rally on September 1. He was taken to a local hospital for tests but was discharged shortly after.

A woman, whose identity has not been revealed, was also treated for injuries sustained in the incident. The police swiftly detained an elderly man suspected of being the assailant. His motive remains unclear.

The rally took place about 376 kilometers east of Prague, in the village of Dobrá. Aleš Juchelka, an MP who was present at the event, reported that Babiš was attacked multiple times. Following the assault, Babiš underwent a CT scan at the hospital and later reassured his supporters on social media that he is recovering.

Prime Minister Petr Fiala expressed his wishes for a quick recovery and remarked that “violence does not belong in politics.” Meanwhile, Babiš’s deputy, Alena Schillerová, criticized the government’s rhetoric, stating that the attack stems from “hatred spread by the ruling parties.”

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation across the political landscape in Czechia. ANO officials believe it is a result of a hate campaign launched against them, visible on billboards and in social media. The authorities are investigating the attack as disorderly conduct, but the situation may escalate into further charges.

Czech citizens are set to vote in general elections on October 3 and 4, heightening the political tensions surrounding this incident.