Final bid to introduce direct presidential elections fails

A successor to Mr Havel will definitely be elected under the current parliamentary system, after a final bid to allow a direct vote failed on Wednesday. The lower house of parliament rejected a bill to introduce direct presidential elections in the first reading. A new president will be elected in a joint session of the two houses of parliament on January 15th. Mr Havel steps down on February 2nd, after twelve years in the post.

Author: Rob Cameron