[2] The Civic Democratic Party (ODS) had won the 1996 parliamentary elections.

[3][4] The government lasted until 1998, when it resigned during a political crisis that caused the division of ODS and the disintegration of the ruling coalition.

The US was formed by former members of ODS who had left after a conflict with Václav Klaus.

The ODS was polling at around 10%, with the US expected to replace it as the major right-wing party.

The ČSSD criticised the work of Klaus' cabinet and recycled slogans used during 1996 campaign, as well as promising to fight against corruption.