Karel Schwarzenberg to lead TOP 09

Former foreign minister Karel Schwarzenberg on Thursday confirmed speculation he will be taking the leading role in the new party. One of the Czech Republic’s most popular politicians, Mr Schwarzenberg represented the Green Party in the previous government in the post of foreign minister. Speaking at the official presentation of TOP 09, Mr Schwarzenberg said that he recognised he did not have the support of a part of the Green constituency, but that as a former forester he would remain a proponent of that party’s ideals. His migration to the new centre right party is another part of the ongoing reorganisation of many parties following elections to the European Parliament and the reshuffling of the Christian Democratic leadership. The Green Party chairman and vice chairman also resigned this week