Svejnar confirms presidential bid

Czech-American economist Jan Svejnar has confirmed that he will run in the Czech Republic’s upcoming presidential election, to be held in February. His nomination was backed by ten lawmakers from the upper house on Friday, senators from across the political spectrum – excluding the right-of-centre Civic Democrats and the Communists. The Greens, a junior member of the government, have said they will support Mr Svejnar’s candidacy, while the opposition Social Democrats are due to decide on Saturday. Jan Svejnar, a professor at the University of Michigan who served as an advisor to former president Vaclav Havel, will face incumbent Vaclav Klaus. So far Mr Klaus is being considered the favourite in the race, having already received backing from the Civic Democrats, the largest party in Parliament. The election is to be held on February 8.

Author: Jan Velinger