Parliamentary heads in favour of secret ballot in presidential election

The head of the Chamber of Deputies, Miloslav Vlček and Senate chairman Přemysl Sobotka have agreed that voting by lawmakers in the upcoming presidential election should remain secret. Both men discussed the issue on Czech TV on Sunday, responding to some politicians’ favouring an open vote. Both also expressed hopes that the presidential election would be dignified and without procedural disputes between deputies and senators. The presidential election will see a joint session of both houses of Parliament on February 8. Incumbent Václav Klaus nominated by the Civic Democrats, is seeking re-election. He faces challenger Jan Švejnar, who was nominated by four groups of senators including the opposition Social Democrats.

Author: Jan Velinger