The inauguration ceremony for Slovakia’s new president took place amidst heightened security following an assassination attempt on Prime Minister Robert Fico. The new president, Pellegrini, called for national unity in his speech, emphasizing that Slovakia is one nation. His victory in the presidential runoff cemented Fico’s grip on power, with control over major strategic posts. The previous president, Zuzana Čaputová, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, did not seek a second term.
Fico, who did not attend the ceremony due to his recovery from a gunshot wound, leads the leftist Smer party that won parliamentary elections on a pro-Russian and anti-American platform. Pellegrini, a strong advocate for state intervention, joined a governing coalition with Fico and the ultranationalist Slovak National Party. Concerns have been raised that Slovakia could shift away from its pro-Western stance and follow the lead of Hungary under Viktor Orbán. Recent rallies across Slovakia have expressed opposition to Fico’s policies, including his pro-Russian leanings and attempts to control the media.
Pellegrini, who previously served as the speaker of Parliament, did not publicly challenge Fico’s policies. Despite briefly parting ways with Fico after the scandal-ridden Smer party lost the previous election, Pellegrini’s reunion with Fico allowed for the formation of a government. In Slovakia, the president plays a significant role in selecting the prime minister, swearing in the new government, appointing Constitutional Court judges, and holding the power to veto laws. However, Parliament can override a veto with a simple majority, and decisions can also be challenged at the Constitutional Court.
The political landscape in Slovakia has been shaped by recent events, including the assassination attempt on Prime Minister Fico and public opposition to his pro-Russian policies. Pellegrini’s inauguration as the country’s sixth president reflects a continuation of Fico’s influence, with his party retaining control over major strategic posts. The concerns about Slovakia shifting towards a more pro-Russian stance have sparked protests and rallies across the country, with many expressing support for maintaining a pro-Western course. Pellegrini’s role in the government, as a strong advocate for state intervention, has raised questions about the direction Slovakia will take under his leadership.
The absence of Fico at the inauguration, due to his recovery from a gunshot wound, highlights the challenges and tensions within Slovak politics. The recent history of anti-government protests and scandals, including the killing of journalist Ján Kuciak, has shaped the current political dynamics in the country. As Slovakia navigates its future under Pellegrini’s presidency, questions remain about the country’s stance on issues such as pro-Russia policies, media control, and alignment with Western allies. The role of the president in shaping government decisions and policy direction will be closely watched, as Slovakia seeks to balance national unity with international relations and strategic interests.
