Sobotka: Negotiations with Zeman on forming cabinet could set precedent

Negotiations with President Miloš Zeman over the composition of a new government could set a precedent, says Bohuslav Sobotka, who Mr. Zeman is due to appoint prime minister on Friday. In an interview for the Czech News Agency, the leader of the Social Democrats said even though the head of state won a direct election he should not interfere in the makeup of the cabinet. Mr. Sobotka said governments should be formed on the basis of parliamentary majority, not the views of the president. Mr. Zeman is due to hold talks with ministerial candidates in the second half of the month and has questioned whether a number of them are suitable nominees.