The announcement of the appeal against the verdict that acquitted former Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis and his former aide Jana Nagyova in the Capi hnizdo subsidy fraud case has stirred controversy and raised concerns about the state of rule of law in the Czech Republic.

The case dates back to 2018 when Babis, who was the Minister of Finance at the time, was accused of fraudulently obtaining EU subsidies for his farm, Capi hnizdo. The prosecution alleged that Babis and Nagyova deliberately separated the farm from the Agrofert holding company in order to apply for the subsidy, which they were not entitled to receive. The defense argued that the separation was for family reasons and that there was no fraud involved.

After a lengthy trial, the Prague Municipal Court acquitted Babis and Nagyova in 2021, stating that the prosecution had failed to provide sufficient evidence to prove their guilt. The verdict was met with both praise and criticism, with some seeing it as a victory for the rule of law and others as an example of political influence on the judiciary.

Now, the appeal launched by the public prosecutor will be heard by the Prague High Court of appeals. It remains to be seen whether the court will uphold the acquittal or overturn it.

The case has significant implications for the Czech political landscape, as Babis is one of the country’s most prominent politicians and the leader of the ANO party, which is currently in government. The accusations of fraud have led to protests and calls for Babis to resign, and the outcome of the appeal will likely shape the public’s perception of the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and upholding the rule of law.

Regardless of the outcome, the case highlights the importance of independent and impartial judiciary in ensuring that justice is served and the rule of law is upheld. It also underscores the need for transparency and accountability in public institutions, as well as the role of civil society in holding those in power accountable.

Article by Prague Forum