Slovakian government toppled: what comes next?
After the vote of no confidence in Slovakia against Eduard Heger's minority government, it is now only in office on a provisional basis. Commentators worry about the country's political future - and current situation among the general population.
A Fico comeback would be dangerous
For all the relief about the end of the old government, it would be fatal if new elections led to ex-prime minister Robert Fico returning to power, warns Aktuality.sk:
“There was a time when Fico presented himself as a pro-European politician who wanted us in the hard core of the EU and who knew how important our participation in Nato is. ... Today he is the political leader of the Russian fifth column in Slovakia. If Fico were to return at a time when Ukraine needs the help of a united Europe and Nato, it would pose serious problems. Fico is no longer a guarantee for our pro-Western orientation in foreign policy and is even becoming a security threat for Slovakia.”
Crisis management must take priority
A solid budget plan is more important than fighting over political interests, Új Szó comments:
“To avoid a collapse, the factions in parliament should put aside their selfish interests at least for a while and find a solution to get us out of the impasse they have led us into. Before they sink into lengthy debates about when early parliamentary elections should take place they should focus on passing next year's budget. And, of course, on easing the burden of energy costs on citizens, municipalities, businesses, schools and hospitals.”
A surprise can't be ruled out
Lidové noviny cherishes the hope that the former adversaries in the coalition could perhaps get together again:
“There is increasing speculation about whether a new majority will emerge in parliament that could ensure the survival of Prime Minister Eduard Heger, who was voted out of office a week ago. Ideally, to cover the period until the next elections, which are due to take place in February 2024 at the latest. Given what happened in Slovakia seven days ago, this may sound like a fantasy. But developments have shown that anything is possible in the country at the foot of the Tatra Mountains.”