In a significant political development, an agreement was reached yesterday among Slovakia’s political heavyweights – Smer-SD, Hlas-SD, and the Slovak National Party (SNS) – to forge a new government in the country. The memorandum of understanding, signed by the leaders of these three parties, outlines key roles and responsibilities within the government, setting the stage for a new era in Slovak politics.

As per the agreement, Smer-SD will take the helm with its chairman, Robert Fico, as the Prime Minister. Hlas-SD’s Peter Pellegrini, also a former Prime Minister, will assume the role of parliament speaker. This distribution of power reflects the delicate balancing act undertaken by the parties to form a coalition government.

The allocation of ministries is as follows: Hlas-SD will oversee seven ministries, Smer-SD will lead six, and the SNS will have three. The memorandum, which is described by Fico as the foundation for the upcoming coalition agreement, emphasizes the need for a swift cabinet formation to ensure Slovakia’s representation at the EU summit scheduled for October 26-27.

Fico, in his commitment to the country, has promised to improve the standard of living for the people if he garners confidence as the Prime Minister of the new government. The coalition leaders have also reaffirmed their dedication to Slovakia’s international orientation as an EU and NATO member state, assuring continuity in their foreign policy commitments.

Addressing concerns raised by protesters under the banner of “save democracy in Slovakia,” Fico underscored his intent to govern democratically, showing respect for diverse opinions even if they differ from his own. Additionally, the new government has identified tackling irregular migration as a top priority, aiming to restore traditional values while respecting life’s diversity.

Fico criticized the “amateurism” and “incompetence” of previous governments, emphasizing that the new cabinet’s focus will be on propelling Slovakia toward a brighter future without internal disputes that may distract the public.

The urgency to establish the new government is evident in the leaders’ calls to President Zuzana Caputova to cooperate and convene a session of the new parliament at a date requested by the coalition. The overarching objective of this coalition is to provide stability, address the concerns of the people, and demonstrate democratic governance.

While “specific names” and “specific positions” are yet to be announced, the emerging coalition anticipates the participation of the opposition in certain control positions and parliamentary committees, fostering a sense of inclusivity and cooperation in Slovakia’s political landscape. This historic agreement between Smer-SD, Hlas-SD, and SNS marks a pivotal moment in the country’s political history, and its implications are eagerly awaited by both domestic and international observers.

Article by Prague Forum