Czech PM prefers not having to sack Cunek, relies on KDU - press

Czech PM Mirek Topolanek would consider it the worst possible alternative if he were forced to dismiss Jiri Cunek as deputy PM, and he would prefer Cunek’s junior ruling Christian Democrats (KDU-CSL) making their chairman leave by themselves, Topolanek says in Mlada fronta Dnes (MfD) today.

"I consider this [sacking of Cunek] a very bad option. I’d prefer it if the KDU-CSL persuaded its chairman itself," Topolanek told the daily.

There has been pressure for Cunek’s departure from the government over corruption accusations he faces and newly also over his controversial statements on Romanies.

Cunek has refused to resign as deputy PM and local development minister.

"I hope that KDU-CSL leaders understand now that the situation is serious, that this [Cunek’s scandal] has destabilised the coalition, that tension in individual parties and between parties is growing and that a solution is necessary. I’m not the one to rebuke anyone, but in my opinion the worst alternative is my being forced to dismiss Jiri Cunek," Topolanek told MfD.

If he were to choose either to preserve the coalition or save Cunek’s position as a member of the government, "of course, my priority is to preserve the coalition," he said.

Cunek’s departure has been resolutely demanded by the second junior ruling party, the Greens (SZ).

Topolanek said he has been cautious about Cunek’s case also due to his own unfavourable experience with the media.

He said that journalists do not behave to him in a way he supposes them to behave, which arouses certain tension.

The media hunted for him but it never apologised to him after its accusations turned out to be untrue. This applies to the media challenging his former activities as a businessman and his flat acquisition, Topolanek said.

"Nothing has proved true but no one has apologised to me. That is why I’m cautious about Cunek’s case," Topolanek said, alluding to the strong attention the media have paid to Cunek.