Title: New General Director of Czech Television Requests Audit Amid Financial Controversy
Subtitle: The audit aims to shed light on the financial situation and reform funding at Czech Television
Date: October 18, 2023
Czech Television’s newly appointed General Director, Jan Souek, has expressed his intention to conduct an audit of the organization’s finances. However, Souek has yet to finalize the details of the audit with the television’s management, and no contract with an auditor has been signed so far. Souek plans to utilize the results of the analysis to facilitate discussions on the necessary reforms in Czech Television’s funding.
The impetus for the audit came from information provided by Souek’s predecessor, Petr Dvok, who stated that Czech Television has access to approximately two billion Czech korunas. This revelation prompted representatives from commercial media outlets to voice their reservations regarding the proposed increase in the television fee from the current 135 to 160 korunas per month. The additional revenue generated from the fee increase, estimated to be between 1.3 and 1.5 billion korunas annually, would contribute to the existing seven-billion-koruna budget.
According to Souek, while Czech Television does possess around two billion korunas, it can only access approximately 200 million korunas. This is due to 700 million korunas being allocated to an inexhaustible reserve, one billion korunas being subject to a dispute with the financial authorities, and the remaining funds being tied to planned activities in the future.
In addition to the audit, Souek also informed the board that Dvok is demanding the payment of his annual bonus for the year 2020, amounting to 822,800 korunas. The board had previously reduced Dvok’s bonus to 66 percent. However, subsequent analyses revealed that the board’s decision did not meet the necessary majority, rendering the reduction invalid and entitling the former General Director to the full amount. Souek intends to seek expert opinions on Dvok’s request before making a decision.
Jan Souek assumed the position of General Director on January 1st. He emerged victorious in the elections held in June, defeating Dvok, who had held the position for the past 12 years.
The audit initiated by Souek aims to provide transparency and address the financial concerns surrounding Czech Television. It is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future reforms and funding strategies of the organization.
How will the requested audit at Czech Television help address concerns regarding financial stability and transparency?
Nding financial controversy at Czech Television has prompted calls for a thorough investigation into the organization’s finances. The new General Director, Jan Souek, has taken the initiative to request an audit in order to shed light on the financial situation and help implement necessary reforms.
Despite the urgency of the matter, Souek has not yet reached an agreement with the television’s management regarding the specifics of the audit. A contract with an auditor has also not been signed at this stage. Souek aims to utilize the findings of the audit to fuel discussions on how to improve Czech Television’s funding model.
The need for an investigation arises from a financial controversy that has been brewing at the television station. The details of the controversy have not been disclosed, but they have prompted concerns about the financial stability and transparency of Czech Television.
By conducting an audit, Jan Souek hopes to get a comprehensive understanding of the organization’s financial situation. This will allow for a thorough analysis of expenditure, revenue, and any potential irregularities. The audit will also serve as a basis for discussions on how to reform the funding structure of Czech Television in order to ensure greater financial stability and transparency.
The decision to request an audit showcases Souek’s commitment to transparency and accountability. It reflects his determination to address the financial controversy and implement necessary reforms to improve the overall functioning of Czech Television.
“Great to see the TV network taking steps towards financial transparency and accountability! Excited to see what changes the new CEO brings.”
“This is a positive move towards ensuring the financial integrity of the TV network. Hoping for a successful audit and a bright future under the new CEO’s leadership.”