Daily: Weigl candidate for ČNB board

The head of the president’s office, economist Jiří Weigl, a friend and long-term associate of President Vaclav Klaus, is reportedly a strong candidate for membership on the governing board of the Czech National Bank, the daily E15 has reported. The daily has cited independent sources. According to the newspaper, Mr Weigl could replace outgoing ČNB vice-governor Luděk Niedermayer, whose six-year term expires in February. The paper has written that those familiar with the situation at Prague Castle have said Mr Weigl has not yet reached a final decision. If Vaclav Klaus wins re-election next month, the office head could continue working for the president. Jiří Weigl, an economist, was offered a post on the national bank’s board in the past, but he declined.