Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš backs Miroslav Hlaváč for army chief, sparking dispute with Defence Minister Zůna

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš publicly clashed with Defence Minister Jaromír Zůna over the appointment of the next chief of the Czech General Staff. Babiš promoted Miroslav Hlaváč, the current deputy to incumbent chief Karel Řehka, as his successor, despite Zůna’s preference for other senior generals such as Václav Vlček, Petr Čepelka, Petr Svoboda and Jaroslav Míka.

Babiš earlier submitted a list of four candidates, but ultimately overruled Zůna and voted for Hlaváč. All other ministers supported the choice, while Zůna voted against it. Babiš defended the decision, stating that Hlaváč “has extensive experience and I consider him the ideal candidate.” The appointment was confirmed by the government despite the minister’s objections.