Czech Parliament overrides President Pavel's budget veto

The Czech Chamber of Deputies has successfully overridden a veto by President Petr Pavel regarding amendments to the country’s budgetary and public finance rules. The ruling coalition utilized its majority to pass the legislation, which allows the government to increase defense spending beyond previously approved limits until 2036.

Under the new rules, the cabinet may also exceed approved expenditures by up to ten percent in response to a deteriorating security situation, following a recommendation from the State Security Council. Additionally, the amendment introduces a mechanism to fund nuclear energy projects through off-budget accounts that are not included in the monitored state debt calculations.

Finance Minister Alena Schillerová defended the move, stating that adjusted rules are necessary to create a responsible and transparent budget. However, the opposition and former Prime Minister Jan Fischer have criticized the decision, arguing that it loosens fiscal discipline, risks increasing state debt, and shifts control over public finances from Parliament to the government.