Drobil, Blazek, Zika may replace Czech ODS leader Topolanek

Drobil is an ODS deputy chairman in the Moravskoslezsky region, Blazek chairman of the ODS Brno branch and Zika deputy chairman of the ODS branch in Liberec, north Bohemia.

Topolanek stressed the officials were yet to work much and "they have to claim aloud their place in the Sun."

No one seriously challenged Topolanek's position at the party's weekend congress.

"There are many very promising people in the regions. At present, these are the people with some political responsibility such as Drobil, Blazek and undoubtedly Zika," Topolanek said.

The trio is part of the team drafting the ODS programme document called Vision 2020.

Observers have cited ODS deputy chairmen Petr Gandalovic and Petr Necas as the most serious candidates for Topolanek's post.

Topolanek said the ODS regional personalities still had to make their mark, win over the public and have the leadership qualities.

Topolanek said he had considered Prague Mayor Pavel Bem, who challenged him at the December 2008 congress, his serious contender.

"I did not see anyone of this kind at this congress," Topolanek said.

The congress was not to elect party officials. The next "electoral" congress is scheduled for end 2010.

Autor: ČTK
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