Czech Culture Minister Oto Klempíř Skips Karlovy Vary Film Festival Opening, Sparks Political Criticism

Czech culture minister Oto Klempíř arrived in Karlovy Vary and stayed at the Grandhotel Pupp but announced he would not attend the opening ceremony of the International Film Festival. He said the ceremony should remain focused on films and their creators and not become a venue for political disputes, adding he did not want to "pour oil on the fire."

His decision provoked sharp criticism from opposition politicians. Former labour minister Marian Jurečka likened Klempíř’s behaviour to a failed film, while members of ODS and TOP 09 called the minister "useless" and demanded his resignation. Organisers of the festival confirmed that ministers traditionally attend the opening, but Klempíř maintained his stance.

After the festival controversy, Klempíř attended the Beats for Love music festival in Ostrava, signalling his shift away from the film event.