Government Proxy for Investigating the Management of the COVID-19 Pandemic, Peter Kotlár, says he has no plans to step down despite growing criticism. He dismissed a 350,000-euro analysis by the Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAV), arguing the institution is not certified for such work, and demanded the names of scientists involved in the study:
"I will only step down and tear my diploma if the full investigation proves me wrong. Only then will I see no reason to remain in what I consider an institutionalized dogmatic health system, because the evidence shows me that politicians and the health sector failed."
Kotlár also criticized the Academy for publishing results early and described it as a liberal branch of HLAS-SD party. Interior Minister and party leader Matúš Šutaj Eštok rejected that claim, urging Kotlár to redirect his energy:
"Mr. Kotlár’s passion is fine, but he should now dedicate his energy not to the medical part anymore, as that has already been done, but to examining the efficiency of pandemic management."
Šutaj Eštok also added that he considers Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAV) as Slovakia’s highest scientific authority. The Academy responded that it has been ready since completing the study to inform the public in full detail. Spokesperson Monika Tináková said:
"It is essential to share detailed information on measured substances, the vaccine batches analyzed, and the broader results. We are currently working with the ministry to set the date for a press conference."
Former health minister Marek Krajčí of the opposition Slovensko movement went further, calling Kotlár dangerous and demanding his removal:
"Every single vaccine administered during my term was released only after certified EU laboratories had verified the batch. Only then could vaccination begin."
Health Minister Kamil Šaško is expected to present the Academy’s analysis to the government on Wednesday.
Source: Kristína Babicová at STVR, TASR
