The attempt to find a replacement for Mr Havel took a bizarre turn on
Wednesday, when the Czech pop singer Karel Gott announced he would
stand for president if a direct vote was held. Mr Gott, who first
sprung to fame in the 1960s, is known for his sugary ballads and
well-publicised love affairs. A group of musicians made the
announcement on his behalf at a press conference in Prague. The
63-year-old singer is currently on tour on Germany, where he is
massively popular, particularly among older women.