Czech President denounces death threats targeting journalists and writers, urges responsible rhetoric

President Petr Pavel used his X account to condemn a wave of death threats aimed at journalist Karolina Brodníčková of Novinky.cz and writer Radka Denemarková, asserting that no one should live in fear because of their profession or opinions. He highlighted that free speech and the right to ask tough questions are cornerstones of a democratic society, and that public officials who stoke or minimize intimidation act unfit for office.

The journalist has received threatening calls since August, including a direct threat to kill her, prompting a police investigation. SPD deputy Josef Nerušil sparked further outrage with a comment suggesting the journalist should “taste her own medicine,” later claiming it referred to another commentator. Author Denemarková reported threats after criticizing Culture Minister Oto Klempíř at the Frankfurt Book Fair.

The Czech branch of the International Press Institute backed Brodníčková and condemned Nerušil’s remarks, recalling a petition signed by around 40 media editors urging politicians to reject violence. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš replied to the petition, urging journalists to avoid misusing information, while Pavel called on officials to recognize the impact of their words.