Former president Havel seriously ill

Former Czech president Václav Havel is seriously ill. Mr Havel, who is 72, underwent surgery on Sunday to remove an abscess from his throat after being admitted to hospital with breathing difficulties. His condition subsequently worsened, with doctors now saying it is serious but stable. However, they do not believe Mr Havel’s life is in danger. He is conscious, can communicate and is able to move around his room. The playwright had most of his right lung removed in 1996 after cancer was detected. A former chain smoker, he has suffered repeated lung and heart problems over the years.

One of Czechoslovakia’s most prominent dissidents under communism, Václav Havel led the Velvet Revolution of 1989. He was elected president of Czechoslovakia the same year and later became president of the Czech Republic in 1993, holding that position for ten years. Last year he produced his first new play in two decades.