Three-party coalition would introduce direct vote for president

A proposed coalition of the Civic Democrats, the Christian Democrats and the Greens would introduce a direct vote for the position of president, Mlada fronta Dnes reported on Saturday. The paper said the move could help appease President Vaclav Klaus, who enjoys considerable popularity and is expected to seek a second term.

Mr Klaus has expressed reluctance about appointing the three-party coalition, which is one vote short of a majority; it would need the support of at least one rebel left-wing deputy to win a vote of confidence.

The Czech Republic has been without a stable government since elections in June ended in stalemate.