Motorists Party Aims to Overthrow ODS in Elections

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Translation

In Prague, a new Motorist Party has been founded. Petr Macinka is the chairman. At the congress, the party presented a ten-point programme that includes support for the Czech crown. Former President Václav Klaus has offered his support. The party aims to collaborate with other parties. In polls, the party holds between 2.5% and 4.4% support. Their goal is to participate in the government.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: Who is the chairman of the new Motorists Party?

Petr Macinka is the chairman of the new Motorists Party.

Question 2: What percentage does the new party have in the polls?

The new party has between 2.5% and 4.4% in the polls.

Exercise: Vocabulary

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▌09/12/2024

In Prague, the newly formed Motorists Party hosted its inaugural congress, declaring its ambition to challenge and ultimately defeat the Czech opposition party ODS in upcoming parliamentary elections. Confirming their leadership for the next two years, the party maintained its existing structure with Chairman Petr Macinka at the helm, supported by Vice-Chairpersons Jiří Barták and Renata Maršíková.

The congress showcased a dynamic presentation, with video profiles of key figures underscoring the party's evolution from a "political startup" to a mature entity. Despite snowy conditions affecting attendance, the mood was buoyant, as noted by newly appointed regional leader Matěj Gregor. "From planning to execution, we worked tirelessly," he remarked, acknowledging the challenges whilst expressing satisfaction with the turnout and engagement.

Ex-President Václav Klaus delivered a notable speech, offering "four wishes" to the Motorists, including an encouragement to openly embrace right-wing principles. He underscored the necessity for organizational structure, financial support, and a clear vision that extends beyond mere opposition. Patrik Nacher from the ANO Movement also attended, indicating potential for future cooperation. ANO's shadow premier Karel Havlíček voiced openness to collaboration, despite differences, signaling the strategic landscape might evolve towards alliances.

Motorists Party Aims to Overthrow ODS in Elections (Illustration)

The Motorists Party has captured attention in recent polling, achieving between 2.5% and 4.4% of electoral preference, indicating growing public interest. The party’s foundation was solidified with the acceptance of over 1400 new membership applications. Macinka emphasized their priority to avoid an opposition role, insisting that any government they support must include them as key players.

Moreover, Macinka revealed the party’s core platform with a "ten-point manifesto," underlining values and entities often misrepresented as adversaries. Among these, the party refuses to see vehicles, climate, truth, or the Czech crown as enemies. Highlighting economic sovereignty, Macinka reaffirmed the commitment to maintaining the Czech currency despite pressures to adopt the euro.

The congress drew attention from various political figures, including Róbert Šlachta of the Přísaha Movement, who urged the Motorists to stay resolute in the face of electoral challenges. As the newly minted "honorary president," Filip Turek, a current MEP, echoed sentiments of unity and purpose, suggesting a future where the Motorists can effect significant political change.

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