Czechs rally to voice concerns on inflation, Ukraine conflict
Oct 30, 2022
Prague [Czech Republic], October 30: People gathered in major Czech cities on Friday to voice concerns about inflation and the government's position on the conflict in Ukraine.
In the country's capital, tens of thousands gathered at Wenceslas Square in downtown Prague, according to a police estimate.
This is the third such protest, labeled "Czechia First," since September. Rally-goers were upset about their government's position on the conflict in Ukraine, with speakers lambasting what they deem unending aid to Kiev while the cost of living in the Czech Republic rises exponentially.
Organizers also drew attention to the ensuing sanctions against Russia, which they say are inadvertently hurting the Czech economy and threatening businesses and workers.
In Brno, the country's second-largest city, there were some 2,000 people at a similar demonstration, according to local media.
"I understand that many citizens are worried about the future. The last few years have not been easy for anyone," Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala tweeted on Friday, adding that his government has been doing its best to allay these concerns.
Inflation in the Czech Republic rose by 18 percent year-on-year in September. It was the highest year-on-year rate since December 1993, according to local media.
Source: Xinhua
