PM and minister of defense to select candidate for new army chief

Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and Defence Minister Jaromír Zůna are expected to select a candidate for the top army post to replace outgoing Army General Karel Řehka whose term in office expires at the end of June. The prime minister will then present the proposal to President Petr Pavel, who is already familiar with the shortlist.

The chief of the general staff is the highest-ranking military position in the country, responsible for command, readiness and the development of the armed forces.

Under Czech law, the president appoints the chief of the general staff on the government’s recommendation.