Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico held a discussion with students in Poprad on Friday, where many wore black to express disagreement with the country’s current direction. The meeting, attended by around 100 students from three local secondary schools, was originally scheduled to take place at a nearby gymnasium but was moved due to changes in the PM’s programme. Some students left the discussion early, prompting Fico to respond online that free debate requires staying and respecting differing opinions. Government Office head Juraj Gedra said the aim was to share the prime minister’s international experience and promote dialogue ahead of the anniversary of November 17. Several students told the media the event felt uncomfortable, tense and more like a political press conference, saying they lacked space for meaningful debate. Chalk messages referencing last week’s incident at the local gymnasium appeared on the pavement outside the district office during the visit.
Source: TASR, STVR
