VOICED: Czech Communists hope to step out of shadows

The mining town of Ostrava in the Czech Republic faces high unemployment, leading to strong support for the Communist Party, which consistently gains 10-15% of the vote. Despite this, they have not been part of a coalition since the Velvet Revolution of 1989. The Social Democratic Party, poised to win the most seats, lacks a majority and may consider a coalition with the Communists, despite internal divisions and historical tensions. This potential alliance is controversial, with a third of Social Democratic voters opposed. The final election results will determine if the CSSD takes this risk for stable governance.

What percentage of the vote does the Communist Party typically receive in Czech elections?

• 5-10%

• 10-15%

• 15-20%

• 20-25%

Why have the Communists not been part of a coalition since 1989?

• They prefer to remain independent.

• They refuse to join any coalition.

• They have not been offered a chance.

• They lack sufficient votes.

What challenge does the CSSD face in forming a government?

• Opposition from the Civic Democrats

• Internal party conflicts

• Insufficient majority to govern alone

• Lack of parliamentary seats

What is the main reason for the controversy over a coalition with the Communists?

• Foreign relations

• Czech Republic's communist past

• Environmental issues

• Economic policies

What proportion of Social Democratic voters oppose a coalition with the Communists?

• One quarter

• One third

• One half

• Two thirds