Slovak opposition plans protests against Fico's steps to weaken anti-corruption measures

Slovak opposition plans protests against Fico's steps to weaken anti-corruption measures

Kyiv  •  UNN

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The Slovak opposition is planning new protests in at least eight cities against the government of Prime Minister Robert Fico for trying to eliminate the special prosecutor's office and soften punishment for corruption.

The Slovak opposition plans to hold new protests against the government of the new Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who is trying to eliminate the special prosecutor's office and reduce punishment for corruption, Euractiv writes, UNN reports.

Details

Opposition-led protesters are planning to hold protests in at least eight cities on Tuesday, marking the third round of anti-government protests less than 100 days after the parliamentary elections that brought Fico and his new government to power.

The protests are related to the elimination of a special prosecutor's office that oversees high-profile corruption cases and the Fico government's attempts to reduce penalties for corruption and weaken whistleblower protection.

"We will continue to increase the pressure because this is the only thing Robert Fico understands. We are determined to continue until his government withdraws the 'pro-mafia package,'" said Michal Szymečka, chairman of the leading opposition party.

It is noted that the protesters also signed petitions and letters against the government's proposed changes to the country's criminal law.

Earlier in Slovakia, thousands of people took part in protests in several cities. In Bratislava, the turnout was the highest, reaching 10-15 thousand people. Protesters waving the flags of Slovakia and the European Union shouted slogans such as: "No more Fico!"

Recall

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized EU Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders, who called on Bratislava to abandon radical changes to criminal law.