Lawmakers release MP Rath for further criminal prosecution

Prague, Sept 7 (CTK) - The Czech Chamber of Deputies Friday released deputy David Rath, former Central Bohemia governor, for further criminal prosecution over alleged corruption in the purchase of equipment for some regional hospitals.

Rath has been prosecuted for several months already on suspicion of bribery in connection with the reconstruction of the Bustehrad chateau.

Rath's release was supported by 174 out of 185 deputies present in the lower house of parliament, four were against it.

They were members of the Czech Social Democratic Party (CSSD), of which Rath used to be a member, and Tomas Ulehla, senior government Civic Democratic Party (ODS) member, one of the six ODS rebellious MPs who did not support the government tax package on Wednesday.

Ulehla later said it was a mistake and that he voted for Rath's release.

Six deputies, including two CSSD members, abstained from the vote.

The Chamber of Deputies did not approve Stanislav Huml's (CSSD) proposal that Rath's custody regime be adjusted so that he may take part in the house's voting on bills.

Rath has been in custody since mid-May. He dismisses any guilt.

He was taken back to the custody prison in Litomerice, north Bohemia, after the deputies voted on him.