Crowds Boo Babis During Prague’s November 1989 Commemoration Event
The recent commemoration of the events of November 17, 1989, in Prague witnessed significant tensions as crowds booed Andrej Babis, the leader of the ANO party and a potential next Prime Minister of the Czech Republic. The event, held on Narodni Street, attracted approximately 102,000 attendees who gathered to reflect on the Velvet Revolution, which marked a pivotal moment in the country’s transition to democracy.
Commemorating the Velvet Revolution
This year’s memorial not only celebrated the 36th anniversary of the Velvet Revolution but also recognized the 75th anniversary of the judicial execution of Milada Horakova, a prominent democratic politician, and the death of Father Josef Toufar, a Catholic priest who suffered at the hands of the communist regime.
Significant Attendance and Atmosphere
- Event Date: November 17, 2023
- Location: Narodni Street, Prague
- Attendees: About 102,000 participants
Organized by Díky, že můžem (“Thanks, That We Can”), the Narodni Parade aimed to honor these historical figures along with the broader implications of the revolution on Czech society. The atmosphere during the event fluctuated between hostility and support for Babis, who arrived at around 8 a.m.
Babis’ Arrival and Response
Upon his arrival, Babis faced a mixed reception. Many attendees booed him, chanting “shame” and referencing his alleged ties to the former communist secret police, known as the StB. Despite the negative reactions, some voices in the crowd expressed support with phrases like “Long live Babis.”
During a brief interview, Babis reflected on the importance of freedom gained through the revolution and highlighted the ability of citizens to express their opinions without fear. He noted the significance of free elections and the opportunities for business that emerged post-1989.
Political Context and Challenges
As the ANO party negotiates for a new government alongside the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy party, the tensions at the memorial reflect the ongoing divisions in Czech society. Babis’ political history, including his involvement with the communist regime, remains a contentious topic.
Controversy Over Past Associations
Babis has faced accusations regarding his past collaboration with the StB, which he strongly denies. Documents from the Slovak Institute of the Nation’s Memory indicate he was registered as a collaborator, but he has claimed to have won legal battles disputing this assertion.
For Babis, the fall of totalitarianism allowed him to establish his company, Agrofert, which has since grown into one of the largest corporations in the Czech Republic, encompassing various sectors, including agriculture and food production.
The November 17 event serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle to uphold democratic values. Speakers like Petr Macinka from the Motorists party emphasized the need to protect freedom against resurgent ideologies.
