Politicians slam Bárta for ‘surprising’ decision

Politicians from across the political spectrum have criticised Mr Bárta’s decision not only to remain in parliament but to run for office. Karolína Peake, a leading member of Mr Bárta’s own Public Affairs party, said it was an "unexpected and likely unfortunate idea”, adding that he should focus on his appeals process. Miroslav Kalousek of the TOP 09 party said the decision was an unpleasant surprise and that his party was not interested in Mr Bárta’s support. Communist leader Vojtěch Filip said Bárta had not kept his word does not want to give up the possibility of controlling the party he had created as an entrepreneurial project. Before the verdict Mr Bárta said that he would leave “high politics” if convicted; on Sunday he said that the position of MP does not fall under that category.