Brglez, a 46-year-old expert on international relations and foreign affairs, was the only candidate for the post. As a member of the election winner SMC was promised support from all the factions bar the Democratic Party (SDS) in the secret ballot.

SMC president Miro Cerar introduced Brglez as a man of high moral and professional stature who would contribute to the image of an advanced parliamentary democracy.

He said that by electing Brglez the legislature would take a first step toward political stabilisation and establishment of a political culture of responsibility.

Addressing the MPs, Brglez said he wanted to work together with all MPs, coalition and opposition alike, noting that the post required cooperation and dialogue.

"What I can promise is what I've shown in my work so far: openness to dialogue and respect to everyone," said the new speaker, a political newcomer who has so far been known mainly in academic circles.

While Beglez was theoretically elected for a four-year term, it is very likely that he will perform only an interim role.

The speaker post has traditionally been awarded to the second biggest coalition party and the Pensioners' Party (DeSUS) said it wanted the post if it joins a SMC-led coalition.

Indeed, DeSUS president Karl Erjavec was originally slated to become speaker but then changed his mind and decided to wait until the coalition is formed, hence the decision of the SMC to nominate Brglez.

With the MP's mandates confirmed and the speaker elected, the next stage in the formation of the new parliament will be the establishment of deputy groups, which needs to happen within 7 days.

Once the factions are formed, President Borut Pahor will launch consultations with deputy groups before he nominates a prime minister-designate.