Ex-minister Michael Kocáb returns as commissioner for human rights

The Czech government on Monday decided that former minister of minorities and human rights, Michael Kocáb, would be made its commissioner for human rights. Mr Kocáb resigned from the ministry at the end of March under pressure from the small Green Party which was angered that it was not consulted about the appointment of a new environment minister. Prime Minister Jan Fischer, who has taken over the ministerial portfolio for minorities and human rights himself, said the appointment was aimed at ensuring some continuity. Mr. Kocáb replaces Jan Litomiský who was in the post since September 2006.