Coalition negotiates budget and pension rise amid SPD and Motoristé objections

During coalition talks, Prime Minister Andrej Babiš emphasized that the planned deficit is among the smallest in the European Union and stressed a focus on investment rather than handouts. SPD head Tomio Okamura and Motoristé leader Petr Macinka expressed dissatisfaction, calling for a lower deficit and a pension increase above the statutory indexation. The discussion also includes limiting benefits for Ukrainians with temporary protection, reconsidering a three-day sick-pay waiting period, and moving the funding of Česká televize and Český rozhlas into the state budget.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Petr Macinka and Minister for Sport, Prevention and Health Boris Šťastný have voiced readiness to propose reforms in health, education and transport spending if a compromise is reached. The coalition aims to finalize the budget proposal before the parliamentary deadline.