Opposition condemns Kalousek for equating charges against Parkanová with attack on democracy

The opposition Social Democrats and police have condemned Finance Minister Miroslav Kalousek for saying that the charges against Vlasta Parkanová were an attack on democracy. Police president Petr Lessy said he was “very alarmed” by the comment, and suggested that Kalousek turn to the general inspectorate with his concerns. The Social Democratic Party called on the government to quickly comment on Mr Kalousek’s words or else be suspected of sympathising with them. Speaking on a Czech Television programme on Sunday, the Finance minister and deputy chairman of the TOP 09 party said by accusing Parkanová of corruption the police were attacking the state’s decision-making processes and the democratic system itself.