Social Democrats elect Jeronym Tejc head of the party’s deputies’ group in the lower house

Social Democratic Party deputies have elected Jeronym Tejc head of the party’s deputies’ group in the lower house. Mr. Tejc was elected by 30 out of 50 votes. The newly elected group leader is perceived as a member of the party’s pro-Zeman faction and a critic of party leader Bohuslav Sobotka. Tuesday’s vote was seen as a test of the balance of power within the divided party. Meanwhile, the Social Democrats negotiating team, which crumbled under pressure on Tuesday is to be elected anew on Thursday at a meeting of the party leadership. Deputy Michal Hasek, Sobotka’s main party rival, has said he would like to head the team.