Cunek stays on as chairman of Christian Democrats

Jiri Cunek is to remain chairman of the Christian Democrats, after the party leadership accepted his explanation of alleged irregularities in his family's finances in the 1990s at a meeting in Prague on Tuesday. Their vote of confidence in Mr Cunek came on the eve of his official resignation as deputy prime minister and minister for regional development: he announced he was quitting last week after coming under pressure in connection with claims he had abused the social welfare system and the reopening of an investigation into alleged bribe-taking. As expected, Mr Cunek resigned on Wednesday morning following a cabinet meeting. His successor to the posts of deputy prime minister and minister for regional development is expected to be found next Tuesday.

Author: Rosie Johnston