Coalition leaders meet to discuss government priorities, Čunek return

Leaders of the three government coalition parties - including Prime Minister Mirek Topolánek - have met to discuss priorities including the possible return of Christian Democrat leader Jiří Čunek to the cabinet. The issue of the politician’s return will be discussed again on Wednesday. Members of the government remain at odds over Mr Čunek despite the fact the politician was cleared of corruption charges last year. Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg threatened in the past to step down if Mr Čunek was reinstated as deputy prime minister and minister for regional affairs, without first adequately explaining his financial dealings. Some Greens, including party leader Martin Bursík, also expressed unease over the situation. The Christian Democrats have been pushing strongly for Mr Čunek’s reinstatement, saying they have a right to be properly represented in government.

Author: Jan Velinger