The Czech Republic is holding an election for the successor of a divisive president who has challenged the European Union’s values.
The central European nation of more than 10 million is choosing its fourth head of state since the fall of Communism over three decades ago. The winner will take over from Milos Zeman, who stood out among European leaders as a supporter of Russian President Vladimir Putin until the latter invaded Ukraine and a promoter of closer ties with China.
None of the leading candidates for the mostly ceremonial position is likely to receive more than half of the votes in the first round of balloting, which take place on Friday and Saturday.