President Klaus criticises VV's new programme

Nove Mesto na Morave, South Moravia, Feb 16 (CTK) - Czech President Vaclav Klaus Saturday criticised a new programme of the opposition Public Affairs (VV) party, comparing it to the promises of last Czechoslovak Communist president Gustav Husak.

The ten point-programme dubbed "decalogue" was presented by Vit Barta, hot candidate for the VV's new chairman, at the party's election congress in Prague this morning

Barta was later elected the party's leader by a crushing majority of the congress delegates.

His programme promotes low taxes and cheap foodstuffs.

Klaus said such a promise reminded him of "comrade Husak" (Czechoslovak president in 1975-89).

"A received an SMS a while ago saying the VV has chosen cheap foodstuffs as its topic. This seems to me a completely fascinating statement. It reminds me of comrade Husak or something like that. The idea that a political party should assign itself a task to influence the prices of something that is created in the world market is funny. I do not understand that," Klaus told reporters during his visit to the World Biathlon Championship Saturday.

Barta's programme also calls for "a cheaper life in a more just state," the anti-corruption fight as well as a direct election of deputies to the lower house and mayors.

Barta said he would also like to strengthen people's right to the protection of their personal property, save regional hospitals, improve the life in regions, support honest business and secure just pensions.