Europe (Transatlantic Today) – Renew Europe, the liberal group in the European Parliament, suffered a serious loss as Andrej Babiš, former Prime Minister of Czechia, announced the withdrawal of his seven MEPs. This decision decreases Renew Europe’s seats from 81 to 74, undermining the organization’s influential function as a bridge between conservatives and socialists.
Babiš Cites Policy Disagreements
Babiš cited disagreements over migration policy and the Green Deal as reasons for the ANO party’s departure. “We campaigned on fighting illegal migration, repealing the ban on internal combustion engines, and fundamentally changing the Green Deal,” Babiš stated. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Czech sovereignty, which he felt was incompatible with Renew Europe’s direction.
Looking for New Alliances
According to Euronews, Babiš pointed out that he would seek a new parliamentary group to back ANO’s program but did not specify which one. His decision comes after a series of scandals, including accusations of conflicts of interest and tax evasion, culminating in a fraud case involving €2 million in EU funds. Despite his acquittal, these issues strained relationas with his liberal counterparts.
Renew Europe Responds
Valérie Hayer, President of Renew Europe, described the split as “long overdue” due to ANO’s populist direction. Hayer noted that ANO’s values had increasingly diverged from those of Renew Europe, leading to their departure. She predicted that this move would ultimately strengthen and unify the liberal group.
Challenges and Changes for Renew Europe
The exit of ANO MEPs comes at a challenging time for Renew Europe, which has seen its influence in Brussels diminish. Recently, Volt Europa, which won five seats in the election, chose to align with the Greens instead of Renew Europe. Additionally, Hayer’s initial plan to expel the VVD, a Dutch party allied with far-right leader Geert Wilders, was postponed, pending an observer mission to assess VVD’s adherence to liberal values.
Impact on Parliamentary Dynamics
The withdrawal of ANO’s seven MEPs bolsters the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, now the third-largest in the Parliament. Babiš has ruled out joining the ECR, which includes the party of his political rival, Prime Minister Petr Fiala.
This reshuffle reflects the evolving political landscape in the European Parliament, with Renew Europe adjusting to new realities and alliances as it navigates internal and external pressures.