Czech Culture Minister Removes National Gallery Director Amid Political Scrutiny

Czech Culture Minister Oto Klempíř has dismissed Alicja Knast from her position as director of Prague's National Gallery. Knast, who was appointed in 2021 by former minister Lubomir Zaoralek, expressed surprise at the decision. Klempíř, a member of the right-wing Motorists party, provided no formal explanation but stated the move aims to strengthen the gallery's European standing. The dismissal has sparked criticism from artists and former officials who question its political motivations and procedural transparency. Olga Kotková, head of the Old Masters collection, will serve as interim director.