President Pavel skips local election to attend motorcycle holiday abroad

According to a statement from the presidential communications office, Petr Pavel will not take part in the municipal election in Černouček because he is on a privately arranged motorcycle holiday abroad. The trip was confirmed by a motor-sport rider who shared a picture of the head of state at a rally in Morocco on social media. The president’s itinerary will continue with the reception of foreign ambassadors upon his return.

Historically, only one Czech president has missed a local election, doing so for a distinct political motive. Political scientist Jan Kubáček remarked that while the absence is regrettable, it does not constitute a major breach of tradition. The president remains in contact with the presidential office throughout the journey.