Czech Protesters Rally Against Babiš's 'Autocratic' Shift

0:00From Canada, this is your March 21st update. Tens of thousands rallied in Prague's Ledna Park on Saturday against the new Czech government led by populist Prime Minister Andre Babik. Organizers put the crowd at 200,000, all peacefully protesting what they see as a major threat to democracy. Many fear his billionaire-backed administration is shifting the country away from strong support for Ukraine and toward more autocratic ways. Bobby all regained power after his on-o-party dominated the October election. He built a coalition with smaller outfits, including an anti-migrant group and a right-wing one, sparking big changes in foreign and home policies. Now, the government opposes key European Union stances on the environment, migration, and financial help for Ukraine amid its fight against Russia. Protesters waived Czech flags and held signs calling to protect democracy. Folks from across the country showed up, drawing parallels to neighboring Hungary and Slovakia's pro-Russia drifts. Organizers from the million moments for democracy group stressed the need to keep the nation on a free path.

1:05Critics point to upcoming bills that could force non-governmental organizations with foreign funding to register or pay steep fines, much like Russian. Rules. There's also a push to alter public radio and television funding, raising worries about government control. Meanwhile, parliament blocked moves to strip immunity from Babik and a $2 million European Union subsidy fraud case and from another leader on. Hey charges, these steps have deepened divides with many filling leaders are above the law. As tensions rise, organizes plan more rallies to safeguard freedoms and hold the government accountable.