Czech government approves first step to scrapping TV and radio licence fees in 4.36am vote, sparking protests

The Czech lower house voted to abolish public service media licence fees, moving funding under the state budget. The controversial vote occurred at 4:36 am, with 96 MPs in favor and 81 against. Opposition parties attempted to delay the vote but were unsuccessful. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš did not participate. The bill will proceed to the media and culture committee for further debate and potential amendments. Protests occurred nationwide in response to the vote, which was kept secret from opposition parties until the last minute.