"That brand is alive." TOP 09 rejects decline after Grolich's blow. Some knew about the departure.

The departure of several politicians from the South Moravian region has sparked internal debates within TOP 09, particularly regarding the criticism directed at KDU-ČSL leader Jan Grolich by chairman Matěj Ondřej Havel. While some members believe Havel's comments exacerbated the situation, others argue that the party should focus on moving forward. Reports suggest that the departures were anticipated, and discussions about dissatisfaction among members had been ongoing. Grolich acknowledged that talks about members switching to KDU-ČSL had occurred during the summer. Despite the turmoil, TOP 09 leadership insists the party remains viable and dismisses notions of its impending demise, emphasizing its continued political relevance.