Jahn to run for Social Democrats in Prague

The Deputy Prime Minister for the Economy Martin Jahn, not affiliated with any political party, is a step closer to leading the Social Democratic Party in the Prague riding in national elections next year. If he takes the post, he will face off against right-of-centre Civic Democratic Party leader Miroslav Topolanek. An overwhelming majority of the Social Democrats' regional executive committee put forward Jahn's name on Saturday.

Not all within the Social Democratic Party agree with the decision: some members say that choosing an independent candidate for Prague will play into political opponents' hands.