The opposition ANO party, led by former Prime Minister Andrej Babis, has won the Czech Republic’s parliamentary election, securing a decisive lead over the ruling coalition, according to nearly complete official results.

With over 99 percent of votes counted, ANO received 34.6 percent, while the center-right SPOLU coalition led by Prime Minister Petr Fiala trailed at 23.3 percent, Xinhua news agency reported. Other parties crossing the 5 percent threshold included the Mayors and Independents (STAN) with 11.2 percent, the Pirate Party with 8.9 percent, the far-right Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) with 7.8 percent, and the new Motorists for Themselves Party with 6.8 percent.

Calling the victory the highlight of his political career, Babis thanked voters and said ANO’s result was “historic.” He pledged to form a hardworking government that would begin implementing its program immediately. “We are extremely happy and grateful to all who came to the polls,” he said.

Prime Minister Fiala conceded defeat and congratulated Babis on his victory, emphasizing the need for political stability. Pirate Party leader Zdenek Hrib ruled out joining a coalition with ANO or the SPD, saying his party would serve as a “strong opposition voice.”

The Motorists for Themselves Party made a surprising debut in parliament, positioning itself as a potential junior partner in coalition talks. Its leader, Petr Macinka, described his party as “the only truly right-wing movement” and vowed to hold Babis accountable.

Voter turnout reached 68.9 percent — the highest since 1998 — signaling renewed public engagement in Czech politics.