President Makes Zmeko Chief of General Staff, Points to "Test of Trust"

President Andrej Kiska appointed Daniel Zmeko as Chief of General Staff of the Slovak Armed Forces on Thursday. The nomination was approved by the Government on Wednesday (April 25). Zmeko is replacing Milan Maxim. "The army is facing big challenges. The confidence of our public, the Government and the president has been reflected in the historically huge funds that have been earmarked for the modernisation of the army," noted Kiska. He at the same time called on Zmeko not to disappoint the confidence of the country's people. "You'll be watched closely by the public, journalists and also by me as the chief commander of the Armed Forces, to make sure you can truly stand the public's test of credibility," the president stressed. Defence Minister Peter Gajdos (Slovak National Party/SNS) believes that "the credit of the Slovak Armed Forces will be consolidated and increased among the public, as well as in the people's confidence". Zmeko assured that his and the president's priorities were the same. His appointment has been criticised by some Opposition MPs (for his involvement in controversial public procurement), and by some high-ranking military officers (for his alleged lack of experience).