Czech President Petr Pavel said that populist politician Filip Turek is not a suitable pick to be Prague’s environment minister — unless he explains himself over a series of controversies.

“These objections stem mainly from what is being discussed in the public sphere. Of course, I respect the fact that we have the presumption of innocence, that Filip Turek is not being prosecuted. But we do expect a bit more from politicians than just not being in conflict with the law,” Pavel told Czech TV on Monday.

Turek, honorary president of the right-wing populist Motorists for Themselves party, part of the government coalition, has faced allegations of sexual assault from an ex-girlfriend, which he calls “absurd,” and of making racist, sexist and homophobic comments on Facebook, which he denies. Police are investigating both matters. 

“I think at the very least it’s necessary for Filip Turek to explain absolutely thoroughly and responsibly everything that’s going on around him, because otherwise it creates the impression that he really isn’t a suitable person for any ministerial position,” Pavel added.

Pavel stopped short of confirming whether he would use the constitutional veto to block Turek’s appointment. In an earlier statement, Pavel said that he would refuse nominees advocating for Czechia’s withdrawal from NATO or the EU, noting that protecting democratic institutions remains another crucial criterion for him.

Pavel will this week hold one-to-one discussions with the proposed ministers introduced last week by election winner Andrej Babiš.

Turek is not the only candidate facing scrutiny. Babiš’ own potential appointment as prime minister has raised concerns, particularly over a possible conflict of interest related to his ownership of the Agrofert agricultural empire.

Pavel said he is prepared to appoint Babiš within a week, provided he clarifies how he plans to dispose of the potential conflict.

Babiš has so far not announced his proposed solution to the issue, but said selling Agrofert is out of the question.