Babiš's Right Hand: The Hungarian Woman Steering Czech Politics

Tünde Bartha, a long-time collaborator of Czech politician Andrej Babiš, has re-emerged as a dominant force in Czech politics, now heading the government office.

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We are not inciting fear, we are responding to the voice of the people.

Bartha, who has Hungarian heritage, played a pivotal role in Babiš's recent presidential and parliamentary campaigns. Her influence was particularly evident in the 2023 presidential race, where Babiš's campaign echoed strategies used by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, including slogans like "I will not drag the Czech Republic into war. I am a diplomat. Not a soldier."

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She is extremely influential. Andrej Babiš has a nature where he doesn't trust many people, not even those closest to him. Bartha is probably the only collaborator he relies on.

Since Babiš's ANO party won the autumn parliamentary elections, Bartha has returned to her position leading the government office. Her influence is seen as having grown, with her appearing alongside Babiš at major international negotiations and implementing significant changes within the government administration. She has even relocated to be closer to Babiš, facilitating constant communication and collaboration on both professional and personal matters.

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Tünde is my right hand. The mere fact that she can keep up with me and still has the energy to argue with me tells you what a sharp woman she is. And I apologize to her very much, because when something doesn't work, I am harsh with her. But I love her and she knows I'm from another planet.

Political reporter Václav Dolejší of Seznam Zprávy described Bartha as exceptionally influential. He noted that Babiš, who is often distrustful of those around him, appears to rely heavily on Bartha. Dolejší suggested that Babiš may be easily persuaded by the last person he speaks with, and Bartha, who reportedly starts his day with him and may be the last to speak with him, holds a unique position of trust. Babiš himself has described her as his "right hand," acknowledging her sharp intellect and his own demanding nature, while expressing affection for her.

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She calls me at night, in the morning, on weekends. He never rests, he doesn't know how to switch off.