Rebellion in ODS threatening Czech PM Necas

Some regional branches have passed resolutions and dissidents have spoken against the planned increase in taxes.

In the reiterated government proposal with which it has linked a confidence vote, the Necas government wants to increase VAT and to implement some more changes to taxes.

According to one influential ODS politician, the rebels may seek the creation of a new government with its current parties, but in a new line-up without Necas.

However, most Civic Democrats are still cautious, waiting with the party games for the outcome of the regional elections to be held this Friday and Saturday.

The autumn national congress of the ODS is very likely to bring changes in the posts of deputy chairpersons, but Necas's position in the government and the continuation of the current government may be considered, too.

"On their part, I can sense an increasing will to form a better government with the same background," the ODS politician said, adding that he himself was afraid that such a step would weaken the party that would lose its leading role in the government.

In late September, 16 local party branches from Prostejov, south Moravia, backed the six ODS rebels.

All of them called on the ODS deputies to defend the party manifesto and to refuse the increase in taxes, similarly to rebels.

Some more local party branches are preparing similar resolutions. However, some Civic Democrats have told CTK that a further movement in the party would only take place after the regional and Senate elections.

Necas has not announced when the ODS congress will be held. It is likely to take place several weeks after the regional and Senate elections.

ODS first deputy chairwoman Miroslava Nemcova told CTK today she would run for her post again.

Author: ČTK
www.ctk.cz