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The Czech Republic recently found itself in a bizarre situation, with two officers simultaneously holding the post of chief of police. However, even after the dismissal of one of them on Tuesday it could well be some time before stability returns to the post of police president.

The Czech Republic’s biggest manufacturer and exporter Škoda Auto is witnessing worrying developments on its home market as it sees its domestic market share diminish and an aggressive grab for buyers by its biggest local rival, Hyundai.

Following last week’s deadly explosion at the new Palestinian embassy building in Prague and the discovery of illegally held weapons on the premises there has been growing concern in the district regarding public safety. The mayor of Suchdol, which is home to the new embassy, has asked for it to be relocated, pointing out that the diplomatic mission violated not only Czech laws but the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. I called the Foreign Ministry‘s spokeswoman Johana Grohová to find out whether the ministry had demanded an explanation

The Czech Republic has not been the best pupil in the past as regards the pumping of European Union funds. But for future payments the country will have to demonstrate that many gaps in local legislation or capacities to handle the huge cash flows have been dealt with. If not, the EU funds could dry up altogether.

The parties of the emerging Czech centre-left coalition on Monday signed the final version of a coalition agreement and unveiled their nominees for 17 ministerial posts. Social Democrat leader Bohuslav Sobotka says he hopes to be appointed prime minister within days. However, the final say on his appointment, and on the line-up of the new government, rests with President Miloš Zeman.

The authorities in Prague 7 have fined an artist over a series of works combining the Czech national flag with that of the Romany people. He says the flags, which appeared on an embankment in the city last summer, were meant to foster debate on tensions between the two communities. However, the local town hall accuses him of defaming a Czech national symbol.

The death of the Palestinian ambassador to the Czech Republic remains at the centre of media attention. While police investigating the explosion that killed Ambassador Jamal al-Jamal in his Prague residence say they have no reason to suspect foul play, an unnamed Palestinian official has indicated that the blast may not have been an accident.

One of the longest running military sagas was successfully concluded today with a deal to sell surplus Czech fighter aircraft to a leading US company. As Chris Johnstone reports, the estimated half billion crown sale is good news for the aircrafts' owner, the Czech Army, and its local manufacturer.

Prague is gearing up for end-of-year celebrations, with thousands of people expected to join the annual mega-party on Wenceslas Square. Also, with 180,000 tourists about to descend on the Czech capital hotels and restaurants are stocking up on champagne and preparing gourmet menus for the big night.

President Miloš Zeman on Thursday delivered his first Christmas message to the nation. The ten-minute address, broadcast on public radio and television, was an uncritical reflection on his first year in office.