Slovakia marked the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day with sharply contrasting messages from political leaders and large public gatherings across the country. President Peter Pellegrini urged respect, dialogue and national reconciliation, warning that frustration with the post-1989 era reflects the failures of successive governments rather than the values of freedom themselves. He also rejected Prime Minister Robert Fico’s claim that 17 November was a “communist coup,” saying such rhetoric disrespects those who stood up for liberty. Fico (SMER-SD), speaking at a party event in Nitra, again called for reform of the political system, arguing that fragmented coalitions undermine democracy.
In Bratislava, tens of thousands attended an opposition protest demanding Fico’s political end. A subsequent civic gathering stressed the need to actively defend democracy. Despite the rain, thousands more commemorated the anniversary nationwide. In Košice, hundreds of students held the city’s first post-1989 Student March for Freedom and Democracy, criticising the government for stripping 17 November of its non-working-day status. In a symbolic gesture of dissent, many firms, shops and schools remained closed on Monday despite the change.
Source: TASR, STVR
