Prague - Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek said Monday he is to replace four ministers in his three-party center-right cabinet as the country holds the six-month rotating EU presidency.

Next to Vice-Premier Jiri Cunek, who announced his resignation earlier Monday, Topolanek sacked Minority Minister Dzamila Stehlikova, Transport Minister Ales Rebicek and Health Minister Tomas Julinek.

Cunek's resignation earlier in the day unblocked Topolanek's plans to overhaul the government.

The premier vowed to replace several ministers after voters issued his senior ruling Civic Democrats a stern report card in regional and Senate elections in October.

The fired ministers are to leave their posts on January 23, Topolanek said. He would not reveal who would replace them. The junior ruling Christian Democrats and Greens already offered their nominees.

Topolanek needs to win over President Vaclav Klaus for his cabinet reshuffle plans as Czech presidents appoint country's government ministers. "I hope to reach an agreement with Mr President," the premier said. dpa