Milos Zeman says Zdenek Skromach could lead Social Democrats

Former Social Democratic chairman and prime minister, Milos Zeman, thinks that current deputy chairman of the Social Democrats, Zdenek Skromach, would make a fine party leader. Mr. Zeman disclosed his opinion in an interview for Wednesday's edition of the daily Pravo. The former party leader also confirmed that he will not attend the Social Democratic convention at which delegates will elect a new leader. Mr. Zeman also said that negotiations about the formation of a new government are "nearly impossible," and that he is enjoying retired life in Vysocina too much to re-enter politics. Given the current state of affairs, Mr. Zeman remains convinced that a caretaker government is the best solution to the Czech political deadlock. Meanwhile, Social Democrat leader Jiri Paroubek is facing increasing criticism for his party's defeat in the recent Senate and local elections.