Social Democrat Milan Chovanec elected governor of Plzeň region

The deputy governor for finance of the Region of Plzeň, Milan Chovanec, has been elected regional governor. Mr Chovanec was the sole candidate for the post after governor Milada Emmerová resigned in order to serve in parliament. She was the first regional governor ever to resign in the Czech Republic. Mr Chovanec, a Social Democrat like his predecessor, was elected by representatives from various parties in the regional council. He plans to retain his responsibilities in the regional financial office at least until next year’s budget is approved as the region, which is currently free of debt, is considering a loan from the European Investment Bank for road repairs.