Babiš braces for delta
Andrej Babiš's media have been among the biggest supporters of the Global War on Covid. They rival even Czech TV and Czech Radio in their ability to spread panic and fear. They might be "illiberal" at times on Hungary, China and Russia, but certainly not on covid. Lidové noviny calls for mandatory vaccination, and MFD often prepares the public for the next restrictions by revealing them in advance. MFD was also a big backer of Brexit, but it won't take the side of the UK when it comes to easing corona restrictions. Instead, it will support Babiš in his tightening of the rules before the elections. Traveling will become more difficult, free testing will cease, health inspections of scofflaws will be increased, and the business environment will consolidate more under the weight of the restrictions. Babiš has little to lose as the global media continue to hype delta. Most Czechs will welcome a firm hand, and Babiš will cover his rear if a new wave does indeed come this fall, as he expects.
Glossary of difficult words
to brace for - to prepare (someone) for something difficult or unpleasant;
scofflaw - a person who flouts the law, esp. by failing to comply with a law that is difficult to enforce effectively;
to hype - to promote or publicize (a product or idea) intensively, often exaggerating its benefits;
to cover one's rear/backside/ass - to do something to protect oneself from blame or criticism in the future.