Green Party rocked by controversy

Emotions are running high in the Green Party of the Czech governing coalition, with some party members demanding an extraordinary conference which would confirm the mandate of party leader Martin Bursík. Mr. Bursík has come under fire in recent weeks for what his critics call his authoritative style of leadership. This weekend Mr. Bursik further angered the Greens by coming out in strong defense of the planned US radar base on Czech territory, although he is aware that many party members are vehemently against it. The deputy chairwoman of the Green Party Dana Kuchtová on Tuesday urged her party colleagues not to put the party’s performance in the autumn regional and Senate elections at risk by forcing an extraordinary conference at this time.